First Louisiana dog tests positive for coronavirus; officials warn owners not to abandon pets
By Emma Discher, The Advocate
The first dog in Louisiana has tested positive for the virus that causes COVID-19, according to a press release from the Department of Agriculture and Forestry.
Officials did not release the dog's name or where the dog lives.
The pet tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, which is the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans.
“Initially, it was believed pets could not get the disease, but the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is now learning that animals can be infected,” said Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M.
Officials do not believe that pets play a significant role in spreading the virus. Strain cautioned owners not to surrender or abandon pets due to the concern of spreading coronavirus.