Serological Survey of Canine <i>Brucella</i> Infection within the North-Central Nigeria

Objectives: was to determine the epidemiology and rate of detection of Brucella canis from reproductive diseases of dogs. Material and Methods: A survey of presented dogs to the Veterinary Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, dogs in residential areas, breeding sites, and outskirt settlements with guard dogs for a year and half was conducted, and a structured questionnaire administered with a view to determine the epidemiology of Brucella infections among dogs in Zaria. Results: Out of 382 serum samples screened, in Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), 56 (14.6%) and competitive enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA), 120 (31.4 %) were positive for Brucella antibodies. All samples positive for RBPT were also positive for the cELISA. In all, a total of 6 local government areas comprising residential, institutional, and settlement farms were covered. Conclusion: The study showed that brucellosis is prevalent among dogs in the study area, which is endemic. There is a need to test individuals in regular contact with the dogs for brucellosis. Food products derived from these animals should be properly cooked to protect the consumers from Brucella infection. In addition, individuals in regular contact with bitches having reproductive related cases and genitalia diseases should be mindful of personal protection, especially when living with members of their families in the surrounding of these animals. Furthermore, households and herd owners, as well as members of the public who consume unpasteurized milk and other products of these in contact animals of these dogs should be educated on the economic and public health importance of the disease