TAHC: North Texas family’s pet dog tests positive for virus that causes COVID-19

It was confirmed on Tuesday, July 7 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories that a Tarrant County dog was confirmed to be infected with SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that  causes COVID-19 in humans. 

According to The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), a private veterinarian chose to test the dog for SARS-CoV-2 as a precautionary measure after its owners were confirmed to have COVID-19. It is reported that the two-year-old dog is healthy at the time. However, veterinary clinic staff reported wearing personal protective equipment including face masks when in contact with the owner and handling the dog to limit any potential spread of the virus.

Dr. Andy Schwartz, State Veterinarian told the following to CBS 19:

Based on current knowledge, there is no evidence that pets play a significant role in spreading SARS-CoV-2 to people,” It’s always important to restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would other people, if you are infected with COVID-19 in order to protect them from infection.”

The TAHC says if you are sick with COVID-19 or suspect you are infected, restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would other people.  This is the first confirmed animal detection in Texas, but not the first in the United States. The USDA is tracking all positive results in animals on its website.

It's not recommended at this time that you get your dogs tested.