_edited.png)
April 23, 2020 Update:
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) announced the first confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in two pet cats who live in separate areas of New York State. These are the first pets in the country to test positive for SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19. Both cats had mild respiratory illness, but they are fortunately expected to make a full recovery!
For now, testing for COVID-19 in animals is not recommended by the CDC, but we will of course keep you informed if that ever changes. There is still no evidence that pets have a role in spreading the virus in the US. More research will be needed to fully understand if and how animals could be affected. Until we learn more, the CDC continues to recommend:
-
Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside your household.
-
Keep cats indoors to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
-
When walking dogs on a leash, maintain 6 feet from others.
-
Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of dogs and people gather.
-
If you are sick with COVID-19, restrict contact with your pets and other people.
For more information, visit https://www.cdc.gov/…/rel…/2020/s0422-covid-19-cats-NYC.html.
If you have any questions or concerns and wish to speak with our veterinary team, call us at (703) 723-1017. Please stay safe and healthy!
As COVID-19 threatens our community, Stream Valley Veterinary Hospital continues to adjust to the guidelines and best practices set forth by the CDC, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and our state and local governments.
At this time, we are offering curbside service for the protection of our clients, pets, and our staff. Please note that our hospital is still open to care for your family pet(s) with modified check-in and check-out procedures. Just give us a call once you arrive at our facility and we will assist you with transferring your pet to our care.
We offer a range of other online and electronic services for your convenience, and team members are happy to support you in setting up any of these services. If you haven't already, you may log in to your pet portal online:
You may use your personal pet portal to:
-
Request appointments
-
Refill prescriptions
-
Check medical reminders
We know that you have many choices for veterinary care in Ashburn, and we thank you for allowing us to be your partner in providing the best care for your family pet(s). These are truly unexpected times, but we will get through it all together. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
CDC FAQs ABOUT CORONAVIRUS AND ANIMALS
More information can be found here.
What about imported animals or animal products?
CDC does not have any evidence to suggest that imported animals or animal products pose a risk for spreading COVID-19 in the United States. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) play distinct but complementary roles in regulating the importation of live animals and animal products in the United States. CDC regulates animal products that pose a threat to human health, USDA regulates animals and animal products that pose a threat to agriculture; and FWS regulates the importation of endangered species and wildlife that can harm the health and welfare of humans, the interests of agriculture, horticulture, or forestry, and the welfare and survival of wildlife resources.
Should I be concerned about pets or other animals and COVID-19?
While this virus seems to have emerged from an animal source, it is spreading from person-to-person throughout the world. There is no reason to think that any animals including pets in the United States might be a source of infection with this new coronavirus. At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals including pets can spread COVID-19. However, it's always a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals. For more information on the many benefits of pet ownership, as well as staying safe and healthy around animals including pets, livestock, and wildlife, please visit CDC's Healthy Pets, Healthy People website.
Should I avoid contact with pets or other animals if I am sick with COVID-19?
You should restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just like you would around other people. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people sick with coronavirus limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets and wear a facemask.