OAHN Companion Animal Research Project: Brucella canis in commercial dog breeding kennels in southern Ontario

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Brucella canis in commercial dog breeding kennels in southern Ontario

Project Lead: Dr. J. Scott Weese, University of Guelph

Collaborators: Dr. Maureen Anderson, OMAFRA

Date: Apr. 2019 – Dec. 2019

This project evaluated the prevalence and distribution of the zoonotic bacterium Brucella canis in breeding dogs in Ontario. While B. canis has typically been considered to be a rare bacterium in Ontario, mainly associated with imported dogs, this investigation was started in response to identification of a potential problem with B. canis in commercial dog breeding kennels in southwestern Ontario. A convenience sample of dogs was tested in breeding kennels. A large number of positive dogs were identified in breeding kennels, indicating a potentially serious problem. Overall, B. canis was identified serologically 127/1056 (12%) dogs from 22/64 (34%) kennels. The prevalence at the kennel level ranged from 0-100%. Serial testing was performed on a subset of dogs. 27 dogs with reactive (RSAT positive, 2ME-RSAT negative) results were followed. 24 became negative on subsequent testing, consistent with transient cross reaction as can be found in situations such as following Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccination. 2 remained reactive and 1 converted to positive. This has important ramifications for dealing with reactive results, highlighting the potential for false positives (something that is of particular importance given the potential for culling of positive dogs).

Further work in this area will hopefully involve continued communication with kennels to try to reduce B. canis in the breeding dog population. Some kennels have undergone eradication efforts and are being followed. The spread of B. canis beyond the tested region will also hopefully be explored. Education of physicians, public health personnel and veterinarians is ongoing to try to increase awareness.

To see a PDF of the poster below, click here.