Brucellosis in Dogs

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                      General Information



Brucellosis is caused by bacteria known as Brucella canis.  The

disease spreads from one dog to another during breeding or oral

contact with vaginal discharges, aborted fetuses and placentas,

semen or urine.  It occurs most frequently in breeding kennels,

though family pets may become infected also.



Pregnant females with brucellosis abort their puppies, while

nonpregnant bitches may fail to conceive when bred.  Males

develop swelling of the testicles and usually become sterile.

Some dogs appear to be in excellent health yet are infected and

capable of spreading the disease.



Diagnosis is by blood culture and/or blood testing.  More than

one blood sample is usually required.



                  Public Health Significance



Brucellosis can affect people, though the chance of infection

appears to be remote.  Have your physician contact your

veterinarian.



                 Important Points in Treatment



There is no effective treatment for dogs with brucellosis, and

no vaccine for prevention is available.  Since the disease may

spread to other dogs and may also be a threat to human health,

the pet may have to be euthanized (put to sleep).



                        Disease Control



The only practical method for controlling brucellosis is

identification of infected animals by blood test.  Euthanasia of

affected animals is advisable.