The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recently updated its
recommendations regarding animals and COVID-19. As the situation continues to evolve, more information will be provided as it becomes available.
The following is an excerpt from the PHAC website:
Animals in Canada
The current spread of COVID-19 is a result of human-to-human transmission. There is no evidence to suggest that pets or other animals play a role in transmitting the disease to humans. Scientists are still trying to understand if and how it affects animals.
As a precautionary measure, if you have COVID-19 symptoms or are self-isolating due to contact with a COVID-19 case, you should follow similar recommendations around animals, as you would around people in these circumstances:
- avoid close contact with animals during your illness
- practise good handwashing and avoid coughing and sneezing on your animals
- do not visit farms or have contact with livestock
- if possible, have another member of your household care for your animals
- if this is not possible, always wash your hands before and after touching animals, their food and supplies and practise good cough and sneezing etiquette
- limit your animal's contact with other people and animals outside the household until your illness is resolved
These measures are recommended as a precaution and are basic practices to prevent transmission of diseases between humans and animals. If you have concerns, seek professional advice from your veterinarian or a public health professional who can help to answer your questions.
For additional information about
Animal health and COVID-19 , please visit the
Canadian Food Inspection Agency website.
Veterinary Service and Animal Care
There are new veterinary and animal care protocols in place due to the pandemic. Please check with your local veterinary clinic and provincial veterinary medical association, in addition to local government and public health authorities, to find out more about service changes that may impact your breeding program.