Dog with coronavirus dies in North Carolina

A North Carolina dog died after testing positive for the coronavirus last week, state health officials said Tuesday.

The dog’s owner took it to a veterinary hospital, reporting breathing problems, and told staff a family member had earlier tested positive for the coronavirus and recovered. A test for the dog came back positive, according to a local CBS affiliate.

Health officials noted there is no evidence animal-to-human transmission of the virus is a major risk.

“There is no indication at this time that dogs can transmit the virus to other animals, so there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals that may compromise their welfare,” State Veterinarian Doug Meckes said.

“Based on the information available, the risk of animals spreading the virus to people is considered to be low,” said Carl Williams, State Public Health Veterinarian.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended any pet owners who suspect the virus contact a veterinarian.

The first dog to test positive for the virus in the U.S. died on Staten Island, N.Y., in late July. The dog, a German shepherd named Buddy, was also believed to have had lymphoma.

Two cats also tested positive for the virus last week, according to researchers at Texas A&M. Researchers said study results indicated transmission is possible in higher-risk environments.

“By actively screening pets who may not be symptomatic and who are living with people who have tested positive for COVID-19, Dr. Hamer’s project provides important new information about the transmission pathways of the virus,” interim Dean John August said in a statement.