Taking Care Of Your Dog During Quarantine

One of the most common questions nowadays is whether or not dogs can be infected by the COVID-19 coronavirus. To answer this, we turn to the experts. According to the World Health Organization, the 2019 coronavirus is zoonotic, meaning that it can be transmitted form animals to humans and vice versa. In fact, studies done by the WHO demonstrate that the virus (SARS-Cov-2) that causes today's coronavirus originated in wild bats and with an intermediate host was able to infect humans.

Nevertheless, there have been very few cases of COVID-19 in domestic pets worldwide and only one reported case of a dog with coronavirus in Hong Kong. This is why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as the World Health Organization and other experts agree that there are no meaningful signs that our pets can get COVID-19 and spread it. As long as you, your family and your dog take certain precautions during quarantine, you will all be safe and healthy. In this article we will give you tips on how to manage your dog during quarantine and the safety regulations you should follow.

To learn more, read our full article on canine coronavirus.

Countries all over the world are asking their citizens to stay in quarantine until further notice in order to help decrease the amount of people infected by COVID-19 and treat the ill. This has resulted in many families stocking up on essentials in order to make fewer trips to the supermarket or pharmacies. We all know what we need, but how can you best prepare for your dog's quarantine?

The first thing on your list should be pet food and cleaning supplies. It's also important you stock up on preventive medication for conditions such as heart-worms, fleas or ticks. If your pet needs any other medication or requires a special diet, you will also need to stock up on those products. Another important factor is their entertainment. Make sure they have enough toys to keep them entertained during quarantine.

Another common question dog companions are asking is if they can take their dogs out on walks during quarantine. This is a big concern to dog companions as daily walks are essential to a dog's mental and physical health. This is especially true when it comes to medium or large dogs and for dogs that live in small apartments.

In most countries, the answer is yes (however, with many precautions). When taking your dog out on a walk, we must not only take into account their safety but yours as well. That being said, it's crucial that you research your local lockdown regulations as many countries or even states may greatly vary in their safety measures. We must follow these regulations as they have our health and safety in mind. Once you have researched this, and in the case that your local government does allow you to walk your dog, here are some safety tips to take into account:

Firstly, it must be clear that it will be a short walk around the block. To reduce the possibility of infection we must take them out on the minimum amounts of walks necessary. Some small sized dog breeds will not need to go on walks as they receive enough exercise by playing at home or a small patio. However, for larger dogs, taking them out on one or two short walks will allow them to do their necessities, get some fresh air and do some exercise. When taking them out on a walk, we recommend you wear a mask and keep a distance from anyone nearby of at least 3,2 ft. Do not allow your dog to come close to any other dog or person. Lastly, once back home, wash your hands and change your clothes. Remember to maintain your dog's hygiene as well.

Read more about maintaining your dog's hygiene in our following articles:

• How often do dogs need baths?
• Tips for your puppy's personal hygiene
• How to clean a dog without a bath

To keep your dog mentally and physically entertained, you will need to provide them with an enriched indoor environment. This is crucial in moments like this when there is a big change your dog doesn't comprehend. They may feel anxious or depressed. We can avoid this by keeping them mentally active. Here are some ideas on how to do so:

• Food toys: apart from providing your dog with their regular meals, you can also offer your dog food toys to challenge their cognitive skills while rewarding them with a small and healthy treat.
• New tricks: this is the perfect time to teach them new tricks. You can do this with positive reinforcement by rewarding them with a healthy treat. Learn more on our article about the best training techniques for dogs.
• Intelligence games: these games provide mental stimulation for your dog. It's the best way to entertain your dogs at home. Learn more on our article about dog intelligence games.
• Keep them company: dogs will enjoy accompanying you in your activities. If you feel like listening to music and dancing, your dog will most likely join you. Try not to leave them alone for too much time, let them know you're there for them.

This article is purely informative. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to Taking Care Of Your Dog During Quarantine, we recommend you visit our Viral diseases category.