New Guidance For Dog Owners

The UK Government recently published guidance regarding an increase in the number of dogs being diagnosed with Brucella canis in the UK.

Brucella canis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted from dogs to humans, although the risk is very low. The infection can affect a dog’s reproductive system and cause tiredness, swelling and back and joint problems. In humans symptoms can include fever, loss of appetite, sweating, headaches, tiredness and back and joint pain and can lead to complications such as inflammation of the lining of the heart or protective membrane around the brain and spinal cord.

Prior to 2020 there had been 3 diagnoses of the infection in dogs in the UK however during the first half of 2023 there have been 97 diagnoses. These cases have primarily been found in dogs imported from Eastern Europe.

It is important that all dogs imported are tested for Brucella canis prior to coming into the UK. Dog breeders are at particular risk due to increased contact with the reproductive systems of dogs. To reduce this risk it is recommended that you always practice good hygiene after any interaction with your dog.

The full guidance can be found on the Gov.UK website.

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