By A dog has tested positive for COVID-19 – the first documented case of its kind in the United Kingdom.
Experts believe the pet caught the virus from their owner. The animal is currenly recooperating at home.
The U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says this is an extremely rare case and there is no strong evidence supporting that dogs, cats, or other domesticated pets can pass the virus to humans, or vice-versa.
However, the agency pointed out that people who work with animals and pet owners should wash their hands regularly. Animal fur could act as a carrier for the virus, in the same way, other surfaces, such as door handles. They advise, also not to share food, food bowls, or utensils with your pet.
The country’s Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said, “The infected dog was undergoing treatment for another unrelated condition and is now recovering.”
“It is very rare for dogs to be infected and they will usually only show mild clinical signs, and recover within a few days.” she said, “There is no clear evidence to suggest that pets directly transmit the virus to humans. We will continue to monitor this situation closely and will update our guidance to pet owners should the situation change.”
