This document aims to provide an overview of considerations when deciding if, when, and how to monitor animal populations for SARS-CoV-2. Unlike other resources, the document does not provide surveillance guidance or prescriptive actions but rather focuses on risk assessment and risk management. The document provides example scenarios of when monitoring may be useful for both of these contexts. The considerations emphasize a One Health approach, with discussion about implications across the human-animal-environment interface.

The target audience for this document is researchers and policymakers, who may find it useful in designing monitoring programs for SARS-CoV-2 in animal populations and developing guidelines for ongoing risk assessment and management. The resource uses language that is accessible to non-scientific stakeholders and the general public.