Texas dog confirmed with virus that causes COVID-19

Tarrant County dog was confirmed to be infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans, on July 7, 2020 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are working together using a One Health approach by providing guidance in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The private veterinarian chose to test the dog for SARS-CoV-2 as a precautionary measure after its owners were confirmed to have COVID-19. All 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. The veterinarian reports the two-year-old dog is healthy at this time.

“Based on current knowledge, there is no evidence that pets play a significant role in spreading SARS-CoV-2 to people,” said Dr. Andy Schwartz, State Veterinarian. “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.”

While this is the first confirmed animal detection in Texas, this is not the first in the United States. The USDA is tracking all positive results in animals on its website: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/sa_one_health/sars-cov-2-animals-us. At this time, routine testing of animals is not recommended.