Back to news list

BVA response to stray dogs study

15 Apr 2020

Share:

We have responded to a paper published in Molecular Biology and Evolution that puts forward a hypothesis that stray dogs may have been the origin of SARS-CoV-2.

BVA response to stray dogs study Image

Daniella Dos Santos, BVA President, said: “This research is purely theoretical and the author himself notes that there is no evidence to date of dogs being able to replicate or shed the virus that causes Covid-19.  We would urge extreme caution in interpreting it as anything more than a reminder that work is ongoing to consider the origins of the virus.

“A very small number of cases have been identified globally of dogs testing positive for Covid-19, and these are likely to be caused by human to animal transmission.  Pet owners should continue to follow Government advice on caring for their pets during the pandemic.”

Share:

Want the latest updates from BVA?

For tailored content in your inbox, access to world-class veterinary journals, member-only resources and support, join BVA today. Be part of our veterinary community of over 19,000 members.