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Lyonel Doherty
Aberdeen Publishing
A veterinarian says people shouldn’t worry too much about their pets contracting COVID-19 during the pandemic.
Dr. Moshe Oz from Rose Valley Veterinary Hospital reports that he knows of only two cases in the world where animals have reportedly contracted the coronavirus. But he doesn’t believe it is cause for concern here, noting there are no signs of the virus causing a problem in the pet population in the Okanagan.
Therefore, he tells clients not to isolate themselves against their pets unless they are sick.
“Don’t put yourself in a bubble.”
He says pets are an amazing therapy for depression and loneliness, so he encourages people to keep hugging their cats and dogs during the pandemic.
He points out that pets play a key role in stress reduction during this crisis.
However, if people think they have contracted COVID-19, they should stay away from their pets and avoid coughing on them, Dr. Oz says.
He also advises people to regularly clean and disinfect their pet areas, including food dishes and toys.
