Paw Patrol: Veterinarians Now Delivering COVID-19 Vaccines to Zoo Animals
Zoo animals are now getting experimental coronavirus vaccines, but veterinarians say it’s not recommended for pets – yet. According to The New York Times, Zoetis, a veterinary pharmaceutical company, is donating 11,000 doses of the vaccine to about 70 zoos as well as sanctuaries, universities and other animal conservation sites in the United States. About 100 different animals, including bears, mountain lions, and tigers, have been receiving the vaccine.
As of now, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has not considered any COVID-19 vaccine candidates for cats or dogs. Veterinarians report there is no evidence that pets transmit the virus to humans, however there is some evidence that humans can pass the virus to their pets. Cats are more susceptible than dogs, fortunately most cats have mild symptoms. Vets recommend that if you have Covid, you should isolate from your pets as you would from a human – this includes social distancing and wearing a mask.
The Seniors Trust is committed to improving the lives of seniors. We urge Congress to pass the Social Security Expansion Act. This landmark piece of legislation will provide bigger monthly Social Security benefits, establish a more realistic cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for seniors, and guarantee the long-term solvency of the Social Security program.
