Heat to use COVID-19 detection dogs to screen fans at games
The Miami Heat will use COVID-19 detection dogs when fans are allowed back at AmericanAirlines Arena next week.
The dogs are one of several new health and safety measures introduced by the Heat in preparation for their Jan. 28 matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, when they'll begin permitting a limited number of fans to attend games.
All guests will be screened by the dogs, which "have been specifically trained to identify active virus," according to the Heat's website. If a dog detects the coronavirus, the fan and anyone in their group won't be allowed inside the arena.
"The more we can explore anything for early detection and make it available to as many people as possible, helps," Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra told 7 News Miami. "I'd love to have my dog, little nine-pound dog, learn how to do that."
Fans attending Heat games must also wear face masks, and those sitting within 30 feet of the court will be required to undergo an on-site rapid test.