Study shows we can give dogs COVID-19
By Terry Murry on Friday, April 23rd, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Agriculture has received confirmation from researchers at the University of Washington that the virus that causes COVID-19 has been found in a group of dogs in the state. This mirrors similar studies in other states with the same results.
In all 23 dogs tested positive in the University of Washington study. Both the Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. Department of Agriculture state there is no indication that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus to humans. As a matter of fact, it seems the opposite is true.
“While there is no significant public health risk, we would advise pet owners who are COVID-positive to take measures to protect their pets from the virus,” Washington State Veterinarian Dr. Brian Joseph said.
People who are infected with COVID-19 and in home isolation are advised to avoid direct contact with pets if possible, allowing another family member to perform their needed care. If they must care for them, they should wear masks and wash their hands before and after each interaction. If the pet becomes sick, a veterinarian should be contacted.
The samples tested were obtained by researchers UW is leading on pets and companion animals from households where humans have tested positive for COVID-19. The study is being done in partnership with the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at Washington State University. A complete list of animals that have tested positive for the virus is available on the website for the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website.
