Michigan Association for Pure Bred Dogs
Promoting Responsible Dog Ownership
1915 Epley Road, Williamston, Michigan 48895-9488
517-655-5363  - LSFC2@aol.com

Important Notice to Dog Breeders and Owners about Canine Brucellosis
To:  Michigan Dog Breeders & Owners
From:  Al W. Stinson, D.V.M
Director of Legislative Affairs
   Michigan Association for Pure Bred Dogs

The Michigan Department of Agriculture has asked me to assist with a survey about the extent of canine brucellosis, a venereal infectious bacterial disease that results in abortion, infertility and life-time health problems in infected dogs. The disease cannot be cured with antibiotics or by neutering the dog.  The department has concerns about the potential spread to humans and to other kennels. The bovine form (Brucellus abortus) and the swine form (Brucellus suis) have been serious problems to the livestock industry for a number of years.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture has detected canine brucellosis in breeding dogs at nine kennels in five counties in Michigan.  The breeds involved, but not limited to are, Bichon Frise, Pomeranian, Poodles, Shih Tzu, and also including the popular designer cross breeds such as Cockapoos, etc.

To determine the extent of the disease, the department would like each of you to complete the survey form on the web site at the following link:  It is short and should take only a few minutes.  Respondents are anonymous.

The survey is now posted and will remain posted until August 10, 2010

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MDACanineBrucellosisSurvey

Personal advice to pure bred breeders and owners:  If anyone wants to breed to your dog, please require (demand) that the stud or bitch has passed a Canine brucellosis test through your personal veterinarian.  If you have any questions, call or email at the link at the top of the page.

Al W. Stinson, DVM,
Director of Legislative Affairs
MAPBD