Does Monkeypox Affect Dogs Too?

The growing cases of monkeypox in the United States and around the world have seen many dog parents wondering whether their dogs can be infected.

Monkeypox is a viral infection that affects many mammals, particularly monkeys, apes, and African rodents. Symptoms of the infection in humans, which includes swollen lymph nodes, flu-like symptoms, fever, and a rash around the genitals, hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth, usually start within three weeks of exposure.

Monkeypox is contagious and can be transmitted to dogs. Dogs may contact the infection by hugging, licking, kissing, or sharing beds with infected persons. The first confirmed case of canine monkeypox in France was from a Greyhound living with infected people.

If you contract the monkeypox virus, the best way to keep your dog safe is to avoid all contact with them until you've fully recovered. Typically, human monkeypox infection lasts between two to four weeks.

Symptoms of monkeypox infection in dogs include fever, red eyes, runny nose, poor appetite, and lethargy. Since these symptoms can manifest in other diseases, it is best to take your dog to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis if they are ill.

There is no specific treatment for monkeypox infections in dogs. Your veterinarian will advise you on what to do and determine the course of treatment.