05/06/2026
🚨Important Update:
Brucella canis is a bacterial infection that affects dogs. Symptoms include reproductive challenges like miscarriage, testicular inflammation, and infertility, but it can also manifest as back pain, lameness, or neurological signs. Some dogs, however, show no symptoms.
As a zoonotic disease, Brucella canis can be transmitted to humans, leading to flu-like symptoms such as fever, aches, fatigue, and headaches. In some cases, it may result in serious long-term complications, including miscarriage, joint disease, and endocarditis.
With a rising number of cases in the UK, we strongly recommend testing for all imported dogs and dogs travelling abroad to higher-risk countries🔬
Brucella is common in Eastern and Southern Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. An up-to-date list can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hairs-risk-assessment-brucella-canis
🩸Testing involves a blood sample sent to a specialist laboratory. This test will cost £63 including the appointment to take the sample, postage, and the cost of running the test.
What happens following the test:
➖Negative Result➖
No restrictions; normal care can continue.
➕Positive Result➕
Care will still proceed, but for the safety of our staff:
🐾Please wait in your car until your appointment.
🐾Additional protective measures will be implemented, such as isolation, PPE (gowns, gloves, masks) and thorough deep cleaning.
🐾A surcharge will apply to cover the additional PPE and safety protocols which is currently £30.
🚨Please note testing is not a legal requirement, and emergency care will always be provided🚨However, our top priority is the safety of your family, our team, and other pets, if the Brucella status is unknown for a dog deemed high risk, then for the safety of our staff we will follow the same protocols as in the case of a positive test.
📞If you would like further information, or to book a blood test, please do not hesitate to contact our team.
More information can also be found on the government website:
www.gov.uk/government/publications/brucella-canis-information-for-the-public-and-dog-owners/brucella-canis-information-for-the-public-and-dog-owners
