A coronavirus disease in dogs is typically a short-lived intestinal infection. But what happens if it’s the Covid-19 virus?
On Friday (28 Feb), South China Morning Post (SCMP) reports that a dog owned by a Hong Kong Covid-19 victim tested as “weak positive” to the virus. Unlike human patients, the dog has not shown any signs or symptoms.
Hong Kong’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) will administer more tests to prove whether pets could be a source of infection.
The dog is cared for by a Jockey Club member and caregiver who were both infected with Covid-19.
Since the dog had no guardians, AFCD sent it to a dog-keeping facility. Pets of infected patients were placed at a 14-day quarantine in an animal-keeping facility to ensure the health and safety of the public.
However, the case became more complicated when officials found that the dog tested a “weak positive” for Covid-19.
While the dog’s owner had been tested positive for the virus, the dog has not shown any signs and symptoms of being infected.
Meanwhile, more tests will be conducted and the dog will return to its owner if the subsequent test results are negative.
AFCD collected oral, rectal and nasal samples for the tests.
More tests will be carried out to confirm if the dog’s mouth and nose were merely contaminated by the environment, or if they were truly infected with the virus.
Source
As of now, they claim that there is still no clear evidence that proves dogs can pass the virus to humans.
World Health Organisation (WHO) believes that there is still no clear evidence that links pets as potential carriers of Covid-19.
Nevertheless, they advised pet owners,
It is always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets.
Hong Kong’s AFCD spokesman also told pet owners to keep them clean and wash their hands upon contact. They must also wear masks while going out.
If owners observe any conditions or illnesses on their pets, they are advised to seek a veterinarian ASAP.
Many pet owners consider their pets like family.
There is still no clear evidence that proves dogs could be carriers. In the meantime, owners can stay safe by maintaining the hygiene of their beloved furkids.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed and hope that animals aren’t carriers of Covid-19.
Featured image from SankeiBiz.
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