The dog days are (almost) over: Bentley tests negative for Ebola

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Sana Sayed

Bentley, nurse Nina Pham's King Charles Spaniel, is removed from her apartment after her diagnosis.

Korri Kezar

Staff Writer- Dallas Business Journal

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Dog lovers rejoice. Bentley, the King Charles Spaniel belonging to Dallas nurse Nina Pham, has tested negative for Ebola.

Bentley was taken into quarantine when Pham was diagnosed with the virus earlier this month. He is being cared for by the city of Dallas' Animal Services Department at Hensley Field Services Center.

Pham is being treated at the National Institutes of Health in Maryland and receives daily updates on Bentley, the city said.

While the 1-year-old pooch is in the clear for now, he will continue to be monitored for symptoms. Animal control staff is keeping an eye on Bentley's waste specimens to gauge if he gets sick.

But it's encouraging news for animal activists who feared the spaniel might be put down. Excalibur, a mixed breed canine belonging to a Spanish nurse who tested positive for Ebola was euthanized by officials in Madrid.

Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins assured the public that a similar course of action would not be taken with Bentley, saying bluntly "This isn't Spain."

The city is collecting donations for Bentley's care through the PETS Fund, which helps care for animals when their owners are in emergencies. Gifts can be made by clicking here.

Korri covers banking, finance and nonprofits for the Dallas Business Journal. Subscribe to our email newsletters.