The first case of a dog catching COVID-19 has been detected in the UK. The canine is likely to have contracted the coronavirus from its owners. However, there is no evidence to support this assumption. The UK’s chief veterinary officer said the infection was confirmed after tests at the Animal and Plant Health Agency laboratory in Weybridge on November 3. The dog is now recovering at home.
This isn’t the first time that the virus has infected an animal. In the Netherlands, a few pet cats were reported to have contracted the virus and, in the US, a zoo monkey was reported of having COVID-19.
Veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss told ANI, “We will continue to monitor this situation closely and will update our guidance to pet owners, should the situation change.”
Dr Katherine Russell, consultant medical epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “COVID-19 is predominantly spread from person to person but in some situations, the virus can spread from people to animals. In line with general public health guidance, you should wash your hands regularly, including before and after contact with animals. Pet owners can access the latest government guidance on how to continue to care for their animals during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
