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The current coronavirus crisis has brought countries across the world to their knees. Amidst the many questions surrounding this new illness, dog owners everywhere are wondering, is my dog at risk?

While scientists are still learning about the new coronavirus, they’ve made steps in figuring out how pets are affected. Keep reading for the information you need to keep your pooch safe and healthy.

What is Canine Coronavirus Disease (CCoV)?

Interestingly, there are several different types of coronavirus. Many of them are species-specific, meaning they only cause illness in certain kinds of animals. One of these is Canine Enteric Coronavirus or CCoV.

This incredibly contagious disease only affects dogs. It spreads through contact with Fido’s favorite thing to sniff: poop. Your dog could also contract CCoV from an infected canine playmate.

Loose, orange, foul-smelling stool is a telltale sign of CCoV. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

While most dogs bounce back from CCoV, some contract or develop additional ailments while having this disease. Just like humans, dogs that have to fight off multiple infections have a harder time recovering.

Additionally, studies indicate that younger puppies may be less likely to overcome CCoV. To give your dog the best shot at a full recovery, call your vet right away if you suspect they’ve contracted CCoV, or if you notice your doggo showing even one sign of the symptoms mentioned.

Should your pet show signs of infection and you can’t reach your vet, you can still take steps to ease their stomach upset:

Avoid feeding your dog for 24 hours after their diarrhea ends.
Keep fresh water available at all times. (This is super important to combat dehydration!)
When they’re ready, feed them small portions and slowly build-up to their regular amount of food.

Thankfully, there is a vaccine available for CCoV. If you haven’t already done so, reach out to your vet to discuss if this preventive measure is best for your pooch.

Is CCoV different from other coronaviruses?

CCoV is one of many common coronaviruses, and it can be easy to confuse the different types. Here are some of the more prevalent:

Canine Respiratory Coronavirus (CRCoV) causes respiratory infection in dogs. CRCoV primarily spreads through the air, placing boarding facilities and kennels at risk for outbreaks. Currently, there is no vaccine available for CRCoV.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a fatal coronavirus that affects cats. It can present with a variety of symptoms, including fever and difficulty breathing. Technically, there is a FIP vaccine, but it isn’t regularly recommended.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV) may sound familiar. In 2003, a SARS epidemic erupted in over 8000 cases worldwide. SARS most likely originated in bats before spreading to civet cats and, ultimately, humans.

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a coronavirus that can spread from camels to humans. MERS infections can be severe. Fortunately, no cases have been reported in the US since 2014.