Yes, just like us humans, dogs can contract the 'rona too. According to Merck Animal Health, "Canine Coronavirus is spread through contact with oral secretions or contact with infected feces. Coronaviruses are fairly resistant and can remain infectious for longer periods outdoors at frozen temperatures" and young dogs, shelter dogs, dogs from breeding kennels, pet stores and dogs that go to daycare, groomers or engage with other dogs on a daily bases are more at risk.
"The canine coronavirus vaccine protects against CCoV, a strain of coronavirus that typically causes mild diarrhea in dogs. While this virus is highly infectious and easily spread, it's not usually life-threatening. Because the illness typically clears up on its own within days, many experts believe only very young puppies or immunocompromised dogs need the CCoV vaccination." (Source: AnimalCareVets)
I wholeheartedly disagree with vaccinating young puppies and immunocompromised dogs, period, including Covid. This makes absolutely no logical sense. Think about it, a brand new puppy, up until around 14 weeks of age is protected by antibodies from his/her mom. Their body systems are developing and the last they need is to be injected with a vaccine that contains all kinds of toxins and that has questionable efficacy when their immune systems are designed to deal with and heal from disease. Vaccinating so early doesn't let the body do its' thing and sets the stage for chronic disease later on. Mother Nature is brilliant. We shouldn't mess with her.
As for immunocompromised dogs, vaccinating against Covid truly boggles my mind. These dogs are sick. They are most likely sick in the first place because they have most likely been vaccinated too many times and eat a diet that contains major nutrient deficiencies. The absolute worst idea would be to administer yet another vaccine to dogs that are already sick. Their bodies are already too busy dealing with their current immune disorders.
The best thing you can do to protect your animal from covid is to optimize their metabolic health. How do you do that? Feed raw or home-cooked and never feed kibble. Vaccinate very carefully and only when necessary. You can figure out if vaccines are necessary by asking your vet to complete a titer blood test first. This will cost you more money up front, but it will save your animal from unnecessary vaccines that will ultimately harm them.
-Written by Erica L.