Antech Diagnostics Finds No Evidence of COVID-19 Pet Infections

Antech Diagnostics, part of Mars Petcare, announced this week that its data upholds the conclusions of leading human and animal health organizations, which is that there is currently no evidence that dogs or cats have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans, SARS-CoV-2.

When a dog or cat presents with coughing, sneezing or lethargy, veterinarians often conduct respiratory PCR testing to help identify the cause, commonly influenza or kennel cough. Antech is validating samples to ensure there is no evidence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the companion animals tested.

“We are actively monitoring the situation and communicating regularly with our academic partners, veterinary customers, veterinary health organizations and government agencies internationally,” said Jennifer Ogeer, VP Medical Affairs and Commercial Marketing. “We’re grateful to be aligned in a shared mission to protect the health and safety of both companion animals and humans, and stand ready to share data from our surveillance program to dispel misinformation, protect public health and support our veterinary customers as needs evolve.”

Antech’s active surveillance program is intended to detect any possible emergence of the virus among companion animals. The company will report any discovery of SARS-CoV-2 to health authorities immediately.

The following organizations are providing accurate, timely information on current developments related to COVID-19 and companion animals:

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/covid-19 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/ 

Clinician’s Brief: https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/ 

World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE): https://www.oie.int/ 

World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA): https://wsava.org/ 

Worms & Germs blog by Drs. Scott Weese and Maureen Anderson: https://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/