Coronavirus latest: Canine coronavirus found in dogs in Australia – Is your pet safe?

Coronavirus has now infected more than 60,000 people worldwide, but it is not only humans who have to worry. Australia’s Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) veterinarians have tested several greyhounds suffering with gastroenteritis, and found some are carrying a canine-version of coronavirus.

The disease is known as Canine Enteric Coronavirus, but it is not linked to the current human outbreak.

All of the racing dogs which were tested in Queensland, Australia, and all were found to be carrying the canine coronavirus.

Racing Integrity Commissioner Ross Barnett said: “Greyhounds are presenting with mild, transient (2-3 days) lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, associated dehydration and a fever may or may not be present.

“Canine Coronavirus is a common cause of diarrhoea and vomiting and is highly contagious between dogs.

“There is no specific treatment for Canine Coronavirus, however supportive care is very important and greyhound racing participants should seek immediate veterinary advice for affected dogs.

QRIC Animal Welfare and Veterinary Services Director Dr Martin Lenz has confirmed a vaccine is available for the canine coronavirus, which is much less severe than the human version of coronavirus.

Dr Lenz said: “The vaccine will aid in the prevention of the disease but does not stop infection or limit shedding of the virus but maybe recommended for puppies and breeding kennels.

“The vaccination of dogs should be discussed with your veterinarian.

READ MORE: Coronavirus vaccine: Will someone develop a vaccine? Why not?

source: express.co.uk