COVID-19 and pets: When pandemic meets panic.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Epidemiology
• One Health

Background:

• The global spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to widespread panic.
• Fear surrounding pets' potential role in COVID-19 transmission has resulted in adverse welfare outcomes for animals.
• Owners have been forced to evacuate homes, leaving pets behind.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on pet welfare.
• To highlight the interconnectedness of animal, human, and environmental health.
• To emphasize the importance of a transdisciplinary One Health approach.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on pet welfare.
• Analysis of the human-animal-environment health nexus.
• Discussion of One Health principles in the context of zoonotic disease prevention.

Main Results:

• Pets have become victims of pandemic-related fear, facing abandonment and euthanasia.
• There is a lack of scientific evidence supporting pets as vectors for SARS-CoV-2 transmission or susceptibility to COVID-19.
• The pandemic underscores the critical link between human, animal, and environmental health.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has significant negative implications for pet welfare.
• A collaborative One Health strategy is essential for mitigating risks associated with zoonotic diseases.
• Public education is vital to combat misinformation and prevent harm to pets during health crises.