Although experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, and elsewhere agree that cats and dogs are not at risk of getting Covid-19 nor transmitting it to humans, they have failed to provide a clear guideline on how to keep animal companions safe and healthy during the coronavirus pandemic.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), an American non-profit animal rights organization, has offered information about the best ways to make sure our cats and dogs are not harmed while we are home quarantined during this unprecedented global crisis.
Peta has instructed never to put face masks on animals, as it can cause breathing difficulties for them.
Rather than caging or crating the animals all the time, people should allow their pets to move about normally in their homes.
The coronavirus can survive on animals' fur, just as it can remain on a doorknob, a handrail, another human hand, or any other surface that an infected person has touched.
This is why the animals rights organization recommended that people who are sick or under medical attention for Covid-19 should avoid close contact with animals and have another member of their household care for animals so as not to get the virus on their fur.
Peta also suggested against unnecessary stockpiling as it could result in shortages for others.
However, they said that people should plan ahead and ensure that they have adequate food and medicine for their companion animals, approximately two to three weeks’ worth.
People, if capable, should help neighbours who may not be able to shop for their companion animals and donate companion-animal food to food banks.
"Our cats and dogs rely on us to take care of them year round and especially during times of crisis," said Peta Senior Vice President of International Campaigns, Jason Baker.
"Peta is asking everyone to ensure that their animals are still getting healthy food, plenty of exercise, and lots of love,” he added.
