Brucella canis is a Gram-negative coccobacillus that causes canine brucellosis. This disease primarily affects the reproductive system of dogs but has zoonotic potential. Increasing numbers of rescue dogs are arriving in the UK from Romania, Cyprus and other parts of Europe, raising awareness of B. canis. Unfortunately, misinformation is common. Some owners are incorrectly told that people have contracted brucellosis from their dogs, or that a positive test result means euthanasia or lifelong isolation is necessary.
This post aims to reassure owners: dogs that test positive for B. canis can live safely and well-managed lives in loving homes. With responsible hygiene and veterinary guidance, the risks are low. Let us examine the evidence.
Human Risk: Rare and Manageable
- A 2025 scoping review found only 68 documented human cases of B. canis infection across 24 global studies. All patients recovered. No deaths were reported. (Weese & Weese, 2025)
- Transmission typically required direct contact with reproductive tissues, such as during whelping. Casual contact was not sufficient for infection.
- Guidance from the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) states that infection in humans is rare. The risk to pet owners and veterinary staff is low under normal circumstances.
What UK Authorities Recommend
British Veterinary Association (BVA)
- BVA guidance states that B. canis is not endemic in the UK dog population and that public health risk is low.
- They advise that test-positive dogs should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. There is no legal or clinical requirement for euthanasia.
Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)
- APHA provides guidelines for managing BC-positive dogs in veterinary practice. These include use of personal protective equipment (PPE), risk assessment and hygiene protocols.
- Neither APHA nor Defra mandate isolation or destruction of dogs based solely on a positive test. They support practical, proportional responses based on individual circumstances.
Veterinary Practice Scenarios: What Owners Are Facing
- Delays in emergency treatment until testing is completed: In non-urgent cases, waiting for results may be reasonable. In emergencies, appropriate PPE should be used, not treatment refusal.
- Being told the dog must be euthanised or isolated indefinitely: This is not supported by scientific or governmental advice. Positive dogs can live in homes with routine precautions.
- Being charged high PPE fees: Fair PPE surcharges may apply. However, excessive charges or refusal to treat are unjustifiable.
Living Responsibly with a BC-Positive Dog
- Confirm the diagnosis properly. Use at least two testing methods, such as ELISA or SAT with confirmatory PCR.
- Neuter or spay the dog. This reduces bacterial shedding and reproductive risks.
- Practice strict hygiene. Wear gloves when cleaning bodily fluids. Avoid contact with any reproductive material.
- Veterinary PPE is routine. Enhanced precautions are standard in many infections and should not be a barrier to care.
- Ongoing management is effective. Many BC-positive dogs live long, stable lives with appropriate monitoring and occasional retesting.
Support and Community
- Brucella Canis Information / Support Group provides evidence-based advice, emotional support and owner discussions.
- This group was founded by the RVN from Brucella Canis RVN, a UK-based advocate for BC-positive dogs and safe veterinary practices.
- Many members report receiving vet care with appropriate precautions, not fear-based rejection or misinformation.
Final Thoughts
- Dogs that test positive for Brucella canis are not a public threat when managed properly.
- The risk to humans is very low and can be further reduced by hygiene and PPE.
- Euthanasia or isolation are not required and should not be default responses.
- Owners are encouraged to seek second opinions, follow evidence-based guidance and remain connected to peer support networks.
Let us advocate for science-based care, compassion and clarity when supporting rescue dogs affected by Brucella canis.
