A significant viral outbreak of a new type of Coronavirus named “2019 Novel Coronavirus” or “COVID-19” is affecting a large number of countries around the world, including the United States.
On 28 February, the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) reported that a pet dog that had contact with a person infected with COVID-19 tested “weak positive to COVID-19” through nose and mouth samples. The very low level of the virus detected in this dog does not support an active infection, but more information is needed in order to rule this out.
• There are many common diseases that cause respiratory signs in dogs.
• We have no evidence yet to believe that our pets are at risk of infection.
• As always, if your pet is sick, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian.
The Center for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) has released the following statement:
“While this virus seems to have emerged from an animal source, it is now spreading from person-to-person in China. There is no reason to think that any animals including pets in the United States might be a source of infection with this new coronavirus. To date, CDC has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19. At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals including pets can spread COVID-19. However, since animals can spread other diseases to people, it’s always a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals.”
Additional resources regarding COVID-19 outbreak:
American Veterinary Medical Association – What do you need to know about coronavirus?, Veterinary FAQ
Centers for Disease Control – COVID-19 and animals, Home care and isolation of people with COVID-19 who have pets
World Health Organization – Coronavirus outbreak
Ohio Department of Health – Coronavirus outbreak
The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center – 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Resources for College of Veterinary Medicine community can be found here.
