I have always touted the advantages of having four-legged children versus the human kind. Dogs and cats do not require college tuition, allowances, fancy sneakers, braces, expensive electronics, etc.; nor do they sass or talk back. Now, in the horrific challenges we are facing with the pandemic, there are two more fantastic benefits of having pets rather than children. First and foremost, they cannot pass the virus on to you. Second, and nearly as important, they don't need toilet paper!

I'm also thrilled to see so many people out walking their dogs. I know it's prompted by boredom and may not last, but I'm hoping it helps to establish some healthy habits for those who don't normally walk their dogs. Keep in mind that many of these dogs are new to leash walking so don't get discouraged if they drag you around a bit. Get a good training collar and pull up a YouTube video tutorial on how to use it; what else do you have to do with all this extra time?

Like the rest of you, I am completely overwhelmed by the minute by minute inundation of COVID-19 information and the havoc to our daily lives that it has brought about. I do, however, have some good news about the inability of animals to transmit it to humans. The CDC has put out the following statements, which I hope eases any fears that you might have about your pets:

 At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19 or that they might be a source of infection in the United States.

 In the United States, there is no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets, livestock, or wildlife, might be a source of COVID-19 infection at this time.

We're all obsessed with what we touch, washing our hands and keeping our hands away from our face. Fomites are objects or materials which are likely to carry infection, such as clothes, utensils and furniture. Here's the good news - contact with animals is not a source of COVID-19 infection, so go ahead and hug your pets! You should always practice normal hygiene routines with animals but at least this virus isn't a concern with them.

As far as shelter operations are concerned, we're trying to roll with the punches like everybody else. We are still closed to the general public but we are able to do adoptions by appointment with a preapproved application. All dog meets are being done outdoors. If you are interested in any of our cats, we can do a virtual meet with you so that you can get an idea of the personality of the cat you're interested in.

We are still taking in strays so please make sure to check with us if you should lose your pet. If you have an emergency situation such as a pet that cannot be cared for or you are in need of pet food, please contact our Outreach department at outreach@southjerseyregionalanimalshelter.org. We understand that many people are facing serious challenges and we are here to provide or at least help you find resources to keep your pets safe and healthy during these difficult times.

Source: Give them a hug: No evidence pets spread coronavirus