A second pet dog in Hong Kong has repeatedly tested positive for the Covid-19 virus after its owner was confirmed as being infected, the government said.
A German shepherd living in the Pok Fu Lam area on Hong Kong Island was sent for quarantine along with another mixed-breed dog from the same residence on Thursday after their owner was confirmed as being infected, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said in a statement.
No positive result was obtained from the mixed-breed dog, and “neither dog has shown any signs of disease,” the department said, adding it will continue to monitor both dogs and conduct repeated tests on the animals.
The animal-welfare authority, however, told dog owners not to abandon their pets but ask them to use good hygiene practices, including washing hands before and after being around or handling animals, their food and supplies, and to avoid kissing them.
“Under no circumstances, should [owners] abandon their pets,” the AFCD said.
The new case comes after a 17-year-old Pomeranian, which had tested “weak positive” during repeated tests for the virus, died two days after it was released from quarantine virus-free.
The AFCD said the dog’s owner wasn’t willing to allow an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
