After being the first dog in the U.S. to test positive for COVID, German shepherd passes away
COVID-19 has made a lasting mark on this country, killing thousands in its wake and leaving many lives changed forever. A Staten Island, New York, family is now among the many mourning the loss of a beloved family member to the deadly virus, their German shepherd, named Buddy.
The first dog to test positive for COVID-19 in the U.S.
Buddy was the first dog to test positive for COVID-19 in the United States. His owners, the Mahoney family, say that Buddy tested positive around the Easter holiday. At the same time, Buddy began having respiratory issues, which his family attributed to the virus.
Buddy’s condition deteriorates
As he continued to suffer from COVID-19, Buddy started to lose weight and lose his appetite. Getting Buddy tested for the virus was a chore in itself, requiring trips to three separate vets before finally being able to get him tested.
It was only a few days later that the family learned of his positive test result.
Buddy has to be euthanized
Soon after, Buddy began having trouble breathing, and his family discovered blood in his urine. Weeks later, Buddy began throwing up clotted blood. After taking him to the vet, they decided that the best thing they could do for their much-loved pet was to have him euthanized.
When the blood work came back, it showed that in addition to COVID-19, Buddy also more than likely had lymphoma, which has similar symptoms. It will probably never truly be known if Buddy was suffering from complications from COVID-19 or cancer.
Regardless, Buddy’s tragic death has left his family mourning his loss.
Can your dog get COVID-19?
Buddy is just confirmation that a pet can get COVID-19. Fortunately, there is currently no evidence that you can get the virus from your pet. If you suspect or learn that your pet has COVID-19, you should take certain steps to protect your family and any other pets in the home.
What to do if your dog gets COVID-19
Once you learn that your pet has COVID-19, you should isolate them in your home away from people and other pets. Also, contact your vet to learn more about how to proceed. You should also refrain from using any chemicals, including alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other disinfectants on your pet that are not approved for animal use.
When caring for a sick pet, wear gloves when handling your pet and make sure to wear a face mask when around them. Whatever you do, do not put a mask on your pet because this can do more harm than good with pets. Once you are done handling your pet, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Check with your vet to see when it is safe for your pet to be reintroduced to your home. The vet can perform a follow-up test to see if your pet still has the virus.
Watch the video below to find out more about what you can do if your dog gets the coronavirus.
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H/T: People, ABC 7 News