Note: This article was originally written in March 2020 during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. While general information about pets and illness remains relevant, public health guidance and data have evolved. For the most current recommendations, always consult your veterinarian and official health agencies.
When COVID-19 first emerged in early 2020, pet owners and pet sitters in Columbus, Ohio had many questions. Information changed quickly. People wanted to know whether the virus posed any risk to pets and how to continue caring for animals safely.
This article reflects the early guidance available during that period and shares how Hands N Paws approached pet care with caution, transparency, and responsibility while continuing to support pet parents across Columbus.
Can COVID-19 Infect Pets?
During the early months of the pandemic, a very small number of pets worldwide tested positive for COVID-19. One well-known case involved a dog in Hong Kong. These isolated cases raised concerns among pet parents. However, animal health experts consistently stated that pets did not transmit COVID-19 to humans or other animals.
At the time, guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that pets were not considered a significant risk for transmission. While rare instances of pets testing positive were monitored, they were considered low-risk and not indicative of active transmission within households or communities.
Should Pets Be Quarantined if Someone Is Sick?
Early guidance from international and U.S. health agencies encouraged pet owners to monitor pets in households with confirmed COVID-19 cases. However, experts noted that separating pets was not typically necessary, and the overall risk remained very low.
As with many illnesses, limiting close contact with pets while sick was advised when possible, along with maintaining good hygiene. These recommendations were similar to common best practices used during seasonal illnesses and were intended to protect both people and animals.
General Illness Prevention Practices
During the early phase of COVID-19, no vaccine was available. Health agencies emphasized these basic prevention strategies that still support everyday wellness:
- Staying home when feeling unwell
- Avoiding close contact with others who are sick
- Washing hands regularly with soap and water
- Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
- Practicing proper cough and sneeze etiquette
For pet owners and pet sitters alike, these habits supported a safer environment for both people and animals.
Hands N Paws’ Commitment to Safety
Throughout the pandemic, Hands N Paws remained committed to providing safe, dependable pet care while prioritizing the health of pets, clients, and team members. During this time, our team actively implemented and reinforced several safety measures, including:
- Disinfecting surfaces such as doorknobs, leashes, and light switches during visits
- Sanitizing between appointments using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
- Providing gloves, tissues, and face coverings to team members as needed
- Encouraging sick leave so no team member felt pressure to work while unwell
Beyond COVID-specific precautions, we continued to emphasize strict cleanliness standards during all pet visits, including avoiding hand-to-mouth contact, not eating or drinking around pets, and wearing gloves when handling pet waste.
Public Health Updates in Ohio (March 2020)
In early March 2020, Ohio public health officials began actively monitoring COVID-19 cases across the state. At that time, confirmed cases were limited, and many individuals were placed under public health supervision due to recent travel or potential exposure.
State agencies worked closely with healthcare providers to track symptoms, conduct testing, and provide guidance to residents. These early efforts laid the groundwork for Ohio’s broader public health response.
For current public health guidance in Ohio, residents can visit coronavirus.ohio.gov.
Staying Informed and Moving Forward
During the early stages of COVID-19, staying informed through reliable sources was critical. The Ohio Department of Health launched dedicated resources, including a call center staffed by nurses and infectious disease experts, to help residents navigate evolving information.
That period brought uncertainty. It also reinforced the importance of clear communication, thoughtful precautions, and community care.
How Columbus Pet Sitters Continue to Care for Pets Today
The lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic continue to shape how we care for pets today. At Hands N Paws, we remain committed to providing safe, reliable in-home pet sitting and professional dog walking services in Columbus, guided by strong hygiene practices and clear communication.
If you ever have concerns about your pet’s health, we encourage you to consult your veterinarian. And when you need dependable pet care, our team is always here to support you and your pets with care, consistency, and peace of mind.
