Clemson University officials announce the euthanization of a dog who tested positive for COVID-19. The owner received a confirmed positive diagnosis for Coronavirus. Shortly after, the 8-or-9-year-old shepherd mix was also deemed positive.
The shepherd mix is the first K-9 to be confirmed for the virus in SC. Because the dog had other health conditions, the choice to euthanize it came as a recommendation from state veterinarian Dr. Boyd Parr.
“Based on current knowledge, there continues to be no evidence that pets play a significant role in spreading SARS-CoV-2 to people,” Parr explained.
Over the course of the pandemic, a dog has been diagnosed in Texas, two cats in New York, along with a few tigers at the Brooklyn Zoo. Professionals suggest you distance from pets if you’ve been exposed to the virus or feel symptoms.
Research continues on findings for how the virus impacts animals and the spreads between humans. As of now, the shepherd mix is the only animal to test positive in SC.