In consultation with the latest guidelines from the Australian Government’s Department of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Australian Veterinary Association, and Smart Traveller website from the Australian Government, we’ve put together this article for Australian based Pet Parents to address some of the questions you may have about coronavirus transmission between humans and pets, and planned travel.
Can I pass the new coronavirus to my pets?
As of 18 March 2020, the Australian Veterinary Association stated: “While pet owners should always use good hygiene practices, including hand hygiene before and after handling animals as well as their food, we do not believe there is reason for pet owners to be otherwise concerned.”
Should I be cleaning and sanitising my pets?
If a pet is suspected to have been exposed to an infected person, bathing the pet should resolve any concerns about them carrying virus on their fur. If the pet was exposed to an infected person, in theory it is possible that virus particles externally on their fur could be picked up by a human through patting. However, don’t use hand sanitisers on your pets as they have high alcohol content, so don’t apply it to your dog (or cat). Instead, an ordinary bath with pet-safe soap or shampoo will suffice.
Can I still handshake at Meets & Greets?
We’re reminding everyone who uses PetCloud to use “social distancing” to help prevent the spread of the virus. Even if you’re not under quarantine due to an infection with or exposure to COVID-19, you’re likely working from home.
Should I be worried about my dog or cat picking up the coronavirus?
There is no evidence at this time that dogs or cats can become ill due to the coronavirus. There have been cases of dogs testing weak positive when they have been living with an infected person, but it is not suspected these animals can pass the virus to humans.
Should I be afraid of patting other pets, or gathering in groups of other pets, such as at the dog park?
Avoid the Dog Park at the best of times (they are a hotspot for dog fights anyway). Daily walks are recommended to help your dog burn some energy and your own. Going to the dog park might expose people to other infected humans.
Working at Home with Dogs: How to Stay Active
Enrich pets with puzzle toys for dogs and nose work or treat ball games and activities.
Pet-Safe Cleaning Tips
Wash your hands with soap and water, don’t touching your face, and sanitise benches and doors: these recommendations are typical hygiene advice for any home, regardless of pets living there.
Services on PetCloud and the Coronavirus
PetCloud continues to monitor updates from the Australia’s Government’s Department of Health, the AVA and the WHO and follow their specific recommendations.
The PetCloud Team is staying current on all developments surrounding the new coronavirus and will continue to provide resources to keep our community informed and up to date.
Stay Informed
As this is an evolving situation, please consult the AVA, the Smart Traveller website, and the Australian Government Health Department, and the WHO for updates.
If you are feeling sick with cold or flu-like symptoms, please prevent the risk of spreading germs to others. For instructions on how to cancel a booking, head to our Knowledge Base. You can also email our PetCloud Accounts Team or contact our national customer service team on 1300 66 77 85 if you have questions about cancellation fees or Sitter refund policies.
We will continue to monitor the progress of the disease and update this article with new information as it becomes available.
Thank you for doing your part to help keep our communities safe, and for supporting one another as we navigate through this together.
