Pet dog tests positive for COVID-19 virus

     A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (December 17) that a sample from a pet dog sent to the AFCD has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.

     The case involves a Yorkshire terrier that lived in Jordan. When the owner was found to be a close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case, the dog was sent to the AFCD for quarantine on December 14. A sample collected from the dog by the department tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. However, the dog has not shown any symptoms. The AFCD will continue to closely monitor the dog and conduct repeat testing.

     The spokesman reminded pet owners to adopt good hygiene practices (including hand washing before and after being around or handling animals, their food or supplies, as well as avoiding kissing them) and to maintain a clean and hygienic household environment. People who have taken ill should restrict contact with animals. If any changes in the health condition of pets are spotted, advice from a veterinarian should be sought as soon as possible.

     The spokesman emphasised that currently there is no evidence to show that pets are playing a role in the spread of infection with the COVID-19 virus among humans. Pet owners should always maintain good hygiene practices and under no circumstances should they abandon their pets.