Canine Brucellosis is not AIDS, yet I was shocked to find the similarities of these conditions. Lately, there has been an increase in the reporting of Canine Brucellosis in certain areas of the US. There is no known cure or vaccine, and dog's that become infected with the bacteria, usually become lifelong carriers. Read on to discover exactly what Canine Brucellosis is, the signs and symptoms, how it is spread, along with diagnosis and treatment information for Canine Brucellosis.
Canine Brucellosis is caused by a bacteria called Brucella Canis. It is a gram-negative, intracellular bacterium that infects both adult dogs and puppies. It is possible for humans to become infected as well, but it is rare, as the canine species is the true host for this bacteria.
Symptoms of Canine Brucellosis in dogs may include miscarriage of puppies, infertility of both male and female dogs, eye problems, fatigue, arthritis, and lymph node enlargement. Once infected it may take years to show clinical signs.
Canine Brucellosis is spread by sexual activity between dogs, contact with discharges through mucous membranes and open sores. In addition, mother dogs can pass this on to the puppies while pregnant or from nursing.
Diagnosis of Canine Brucellosis can be obtained with a blood test. Certain blood tests that can diagnose this infection are Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test (IFA), Rapid Slide Agglutination Test (RSAT), and the Agar Gel Immunodiffusion (AGID) Test. Canine Brucellosis is extremely difficult to treat, all dogs diagnosed are considered to be lifelong carriers.
A combination of minocycline and streptomycin antibiotics are recommended, but your dog may still be contagious to others. For this reason, spaying and neutering are also required to avoid transmission to other dogs.
