Brucellosis is an incurable disease. It is highly contagious, and is classified as a zoonotic disease. It can be transmitted between humans and canines, between livestock (sheep or cattle) and wildlife (bison, elk or wild pigs). This list is not inclusive.
The initial human symptoms can be quite mild and flu-like, but may progress to septicemia, infertility, cardiac and neurological symptoms. Humans do respond to antibiotic treatment, but prolonged therapy is required.
From a canine perspective, a common symptom is third trimester abortion.
There is no vaccine. There is no medical cure. The route of infection may be sexual activity, but may also occur through direct contact with body fluids from an infected animal. If a litter survives, the puppies will be infected. Both male and female dogs suffer different symptoms. Females may become infertile, about 75% will abort the litter if they do achieve pregnancy. The male will become sterile and suffer from testicular damage, swelling and inflammation.
To eradicate this disease, the recommended first step is to euthanize the infected animals. Your kennel must be quarantined. No dogs should enter or leave your premises for any reason other than the termination of infected animals. Sterilizing the property is a long and difficult process. It is not unheard of for a dog breeder to sell his property and move his breeding business because the process of sterilization is so difficult.
Detailed information is widely available on the internet.
Los Lunas Animal Clinic recquires a simple blood test of both the dog and bitch prior to breeding. Stud dogs should be tested annually and bitches prior to each breeding.