SPCA S’pore Says You’re No Safer From Covid-19 After Letting Pets Go, Just Practise Good Hygiene

SPCA Singapore Says Primary Mode of Covid-19 Transmission Remains Human To Human

First reported in December 2019, the Covid-19 virus has only been around for roughly 4 months. It is no surprise that there’s still much to learn about it, and SPCA found this out firsthand.

For pet lovers, one of the most pertinent questions posed is whether their furry friends can contract or transmit the virus. Anxiety over the issue worsened when a dog in Hong Kong tested positive for Covid-19.

The Pomeranian tested positive for Covid-19
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On Wednesday (11 Mar), SPCA posted an advisory on their Facebook page, maintaining that the primary mode of transmission remains human to human.

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Surrendering your pet won’t reduce your risk of contracting Covid-19 SPCA

In their Facebook post, SPCA mentioned that pet owners had reached out to them enquiring if they should surrender their pets to protect themselves.

They shared that they were keeping up to date with information from health authorities such as the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), World Health Organization (WHO), and Singapore’s own Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS).

Based on what they know, there is no evidence that companion animals can spread the Covid-19 virus.

As such, SPCA told readers that surrendering their pets would make no difference in their safety against Covid-19.

You are no safer from the virus if you surrender your pet.

To allay concerns regarding the single incident in Hong Kong, SPCA also explained that the Pomeranian didn’t display any signs of disease, and likely picked up the virus from its owner.

SPCA recommends good hygiene practices to keep you and your pet safe

To best protect your pets, family and yourself, SPCA recommends washing your hands before and after interacting with your pets.

Keep your pets healthy by maintaining good hygiene practices
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Your should also take them to the vet for regular health check-ups, and ensure they have the latest vaccinations. A balanced diet, social stimulation and mental stimulation goes a long way in ensuring your pet is healthy.

Netizens horrified people even considered surrendering their pets

Given that some people see their pets as members of their family, it is no surprise that some netizens expressed horror at the idea of surrendering their fur babies.

One netizen pointed out that pets stay indoors more than their owners, and is more likely to catch the virus from them instead.

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Another netizen said that such owners should never have gotten a pet in the first place, and that it’s the owner’s job to protect them.

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A third netizen questioned if owners would consider surrendering their human family members instead, and suggested for them to stop looking for excuses.

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Overall, it is a relief that the Covid-19 pandemic has not hit the severity where we have to surrendering our pets. Hopefully, this never comes to pass.

Let’s make the best effort to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

Featured image adapted from Insider.