Study suggests living with dogs ‘strong risk factor for COVID-19 infection’

BOSTON — Could regularly walking the dog increase your risk of getting COVID-19?

A new study conducted by the University of Granada in Spain says yes.

The findings, published in the Environmental Research Journal, state that those who walk their pooches are 78 percent more likely to contract COVID-19.

The study, which surveyed more than 2,000 people, concluded that more research is needed to determine whether dogs play a direct role in spreading the virus, or if it was the result of dog owners socializing.

“I guess there’s a little more congregation with other people who have dogs,” said dog owner Glen Donovan. “If you’re being responsible, it shouldn’t be an issue.”

Boston 25 News spoke with dog owners in the Boston area about the findings. Many were skeptical.

“It really doesn’t concern me at all,” said dog owner John Adair. “It’s obviously important to do what you can to a certain extent, but you’ve got to live your life too.”

Study says living with dogs ‘strong risk factor for COVID-19 infection’

Almost all of the dog owners Boston 25 News spoke with said their number one reason for leaving the house during the pandemic has been to walk the dog.

They pointed out that living in small spaces without any yards in the city doesn’t leave much of a choice.

Many of those interviewed also questioned how their dogs would get outside if they were forced to quarantine.

“I wash him more. I’m really cautious. I don’t let anybody touch him,” said Boston resident Leslie Minasian about her dog Jax. “I might not get out if it wasn’t for him. If I get COVID, what’s going to happen to him? I’m frantic!”

While this study states that those who walk their dogs are more likely to contract COVID-19, there is no indication that dog-to-human transmission is possible.

According to the study, there is no increased risk in owning any other pets, including cats.

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