Police dog tests positive for COVID-19 virus

     A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (December 15) that a sample from a police dog has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.

     The case involves a German shepherd based at the Police Dog Unit Hong Kong International Airport Operational Base. Its handler was confirmed to be infected with COVID-19. 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 dog has been delivered to the animal keeping facility at the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge for quarantine and veterinary monitoring. 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.