The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has prepared a document for veterinarians that outlines ways to discuss the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV) with clients. The background material and FAQs stress that while much is not known, there is little reason to think that dogs and cats will be either at risk for becoming infected with the virus or able to transmit the virus to people.

As of mid-February, more than 60,000 cases of infection had been reported, mainly in China but also in 25 other countries. 

The full WSAVA advisory document on the novel coronavirus can be found at the WSAVA website. More information on the current status of the 2019-nCoV outbreak can be found at the BBC and the New York Times.