Caring for Your Dog During the Coronavirus Lockdown

It’s a challenging time for everyone as we try to stay safe during the coronavirus outbreak. But the crisis has raised a number of questions for us dog owners. Here are some of the questions we’ve been asking ourselves recently. Hopefully, this information will help with dog care during these days of isolation.

 

The Canine and Feline Sector Group (CFSG) has put together this handy infographic for quick reference answers to many of the most pressing questions.

 

 

Can I Take my Dog for a Walk?

You can take your dog for a walk. Each person is allowed to leave their house to “walk, run or cycle” once a day. If you have multiple people in your household, this means your dog could get plenty of walks during the day.

 

If you’re self-isolating because you have symptoms of the virus, you will not be able to go out to walk your dog. If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, let them out frequently for exercise breaks. You could even ask a family member or neighbour if they can take your dog for a walk for you. But remember to keep your distance and wash dog leads afterwards.

 

Remember to keep your distance from other people while walking your dog. The advice tells us to stay at least two metres away from other people who are not members of our family. while out and about. For this reason, it is sensible to keep your dog on a lead during your daily walk session so you can avoid all unnecessary contact.

 

Can my Dog get Coronavirus?

As far as we know, dogs cannot get sick from Covid-19. Contact with your dog during lockdown is absolutely fine, just like it is with other members of your family.

 

If your dog does get sick during this period of isolation, call your vet for advice before visiting the surgery.

 

Can I Catch Coronavirus from my Dog?

There is no evidence that humans can catch the virus from dogs. But we do know that it can be transmitted by touch and that germs can remain active on pet fur. So, for the time being, we should avoid stroking other people’s pets while out for walkies.

 

We know how difficult this can be when met with a friendly dog in the street. So, for now, you should walk your dog on a lead so you can maintain a sensible distance from others to avoid the temptation to pet other dogs.

 

How Can I Keep My Dog Entertained at Home?

Just because we’re stuck at home does not mean we have to stay indoors. If you’re lucky enough to have a garden or a balcony, take your dog out for short walks or a game of fetch.

 

Remember that box of dog toys you have stashed in the cupboard? Now’s the time to get them out to see if your pooch can get some new-found stimulation from them during these long hours at home.

 

Maybe you can teach your old dog a new trick. If you’ve ever wanted to teach your dog a trick or two, this may be the time. This is great mental stimulation for your dog and could keep the whole family entertained for hours. So get out your dog treats and see if you can encourage your dog to roll over, shake a paw or sing.

 

More Information

The information in this article was accurate at the time of writing and we will update it as soon as we can if anything changes.

 

For more detailed advice please check out the coronavirus resources compiled by the RSPCA.