Brucella Canis & Imported Dogs

Canine brucellosis is an infectious disease of dogs that is caused mainly by the bacteria, Brucella canis. Historically the UK has been free of Brucella canis, but we are seeing increasing numbers of cases linked to the importation of dogs. Brucella canis is a zoonotic pathogen which means that humans can catch it from dogs.  While the reported cases of the infection in people are rare, it is likely that some groups of people, such as children under the age of 5, elderly people, and those with compromised immune systems, may experience more severe symptoms if they become infected.

A significant rise in reported cases occurred between July 2020 and January 2021, mainly due to the increasing number of dogs imported from Eastern Europe, which led Public Health England to publish a risk statement in February 2021. More than 40 cases were identified, including one household cluster with evidence of dog-to-dog transmission. In August 2022, the first case of dog-to-human transmission was reported in the UK, and more cases are being reported each year.

Most contact with an infected dog will not cause a person to become unwell, but direct contact with the reproductive and birthing products from an infected dog will increase the risk of infection spreading.  There is a very low risk of infection with saliva, blood and other body fluids.

Unfortunately, a one-off blood test prior to importation to the UK does not prove that a dog is clear of Brucella.  A double SAT and ELISA test is recommended by DEFRA.  If this test is performed in the UK at least four months after importation and is negative then it is highly unlikely a dog has Brucella.  If we test a dog and it is positive, it is a compulsory requirement that we notify DEFRA, as this is classified as a reportable disease.

Provided routine hygiene precautions are taken, normal day to day interactions with a dog are unlikely to cause spread of Brucellosis.  However, in the veterinary environment the risks are increased, especially when dealing with whelping bitches, neutering operations, the aerosol nature of dental scaling, or procedures where large amounts of blood contamination are anticipated.

To avoid direct contact with body fluids, we will use disposable gloves and eye protection, and a mask to restrict aerosol inhalation. Disposable water-resistant aprons are also recommended.

Personal protective equipment will be worn whenever performing procedures that might be classified as a ‘high-risk exposure’, such as:

  • direct contact with reproductive fluids containing the highest bacterial load, such as caesarean sections
  • aerosol-generating procedures, such as dental scaling
  • any procedure with a risk of accidental splashing of body fluids into the eyes or mouth
  • neutering
  • handling materials soiled with bodily fluids

What does all of this mean when I bring my dog to the vets?

You will see no change if your dog is coming in for a routine consultation, examination or booster.  However, if a surgical procedure is anticipated then we require evidence of a negative test, performed in the UK at least four months after importation.

If there has been no test then we will need to use PPE and take the precautions highlighted above.  Unfortunately, there is a cost involved with this, of £50 + VAT, to cover the purchase and safe disposal of this equipment.  Please also be aware that many of the referral centres and veterinary schools will not see an imported dog under any circumstances without a negative Brucella test.  Our ability to refer your dog may be severely hampered without a negative test.

While we are sorry to have to implement this policy, we hope that you will understand our requirement to keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of disease.