Dogs and Coronavirus Covid-19 Pandemic - How are They Holding Up?

After weeks and weeks of social distancing, there is one thing that I am absolutely certain of; I love my pups. My girls, Allie and Brooks are always happy when we come home each night, dancing around our feet, almost to the point of tripping us up before we ever get into the door. They have loved having us home some much. They are real cuddle lap dogs, and they are eating up all of the attention.

I haven't been able to get close to my children or grandchildren because we are still working outside of the home and the risk for any type of infection that could spread to them is just too great.

Jeri Anderson

Now, I'm wondering about my other family. You know, the ones with fur. How likely are they to contract the Coronavirus?

According to the Center for Disease Control

there is no evidence that pets play a role in spreading the virus in the United States. Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals that may compromise their welfare.

The fact is, that dogs CAN contract Coronavirus, but it's the Canine kind. Basically a doggie respiratory coronavirus. Very few cases of actual Covid-19 Coronavirus have been found in Canines since the outbreak.

I'm really concerned about what happens when we all get life back to some kind of normal. When you and I go back to work, or going out. How will our fur babies survive the isolation again? If you are worried about separation anxiety occuring in your pets, here are some tips found on the American Kennel Clubs website on how to deal with this new normal.

Leave a television or radio on to keep your dog “company”
Don’t make a big deal out of arrivals and departures. Keep greetings and good-byes very calm and emotion-free
Give your dog something to do when you leave, like a puzzle toy or a frozen Kong
Make sure your dog has plenty of exercise and play before you leave

Spending so much time with your pets is good for both of you. They help to ease our stress, let's try to ease theirs too!