Some of you may be worried about your own pets since the news that a tiger tested positive for COVID-19 at the Bronx Zoo.
As of Monday, April 6, 2020, the USDA, United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, stated that most people have nothing to worry about. Although it is possible that the virus may survive on dogs', cats', and other animals' coats, washing your hands thoroughly before and after contact with your pet should be sufficient to ward off any transmission.
The USDA says there are no known cases of the virus in U.S. pets or livestock. “It’s important to assure pet owners and animal owners that at this time there isn’t any evidence that they can spread the virus,” said Dr. Jane Rooney, a veterinarian and a USDA official.
It is especially important to practice good hygiene and common sense at this time. The USDA states that,
"Anyone sick with COVID-19 should restrict contact with animals, out of an abundance of caution including pets, during their illness, just as they would with other people. Although there have not been reports of pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United States, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus. If a sick person must care for a pet or be around animals, they should wash their hands before and after the interaction."
For the latest information on this topic, consult the USDA.
Braxton's continues to offer call ahead and email ahead, curb-side pickup for your safety.
Call ahead: 610-688-0769 OR
Email: pickup@braxtons.com