Canine Brucellosis – What UK Adopters Need to Know About Rescue Dogs from Bulgaria
🐾 Understanding Canine Brucellosis
Canine Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that can affect dogs and, in rare cases, be transmitted to humans.
In recent years, awareness of this disease has increased in the UK, particularly in relation to imported rescue dogs.
🇧🇬 Our Experience in Bulgaria
In over 22 years of rescue work, we have:
👉 Never had, or encountered, a single confirmed case of Canine Brucellosis within our rescue. Equally, neither have any of our fellow rescuers they state.
Our dogs are:
Raised in a controlled, home-based environment
Monitored closely for health and behaviour
Carefully managed in small numbers
👉 This significantly reduces the risk of infectious disease. But of course there is always a first.
🌍 Where Is the Risk Higher?
Current discussions around Canine Brucellosis in the UK have largely focused on specific regions and circumstances, particularly:
Dogs imported from certain high-risk areas
Large-scale breeding or kennel environments
Poorly regulated transport or rescue situations
👉 It is important to understand that risk is not the same across all countries or rescues.
🇬🇧 UK Government & APHA Guidance
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) monitors and reports on cases of Canine Brucellosis in the UK.
Recent guidance highlights:
Increased awareness due to imported cases
The importance of testing in higher-risk situations
Responsible rescue and transport practices
👉 The focus is on risk management, not panic.
🧪 Do Rescue Dogs Need Testing?
There is currently no blanket legal requirement for all imported rescue dogs to be tested. We however do test every dog we send alongside a 4D test for heartworm and tick borne related diseases
However, responsible rescues:
Maintain good hygiene and management practices
Keep dogs in small, controlled groups
Monitor health closely
👉 These are key factors in reducing risk.
⚠️ Important Advice for Adopters
If you are adopting any dog from abroad:
✔ Ask about the rescue environment
✔ Ask how dogs are housed and managed
✔ Choose experienced, responsible rescues
✔ Avoid large-scale, unknown sources
👉 Knowledge and transparency are key.
🐾 Putting It Into Perspective
While Canine Brucellosis is something to be aware of, it is important not to lose sight of the bigger picture.
Thousands of rescue dogs are successfully rehomed into the UK every year — bringing joy, companionship, and love to families.
📲 Questions? We’re Happy to Help
We are always open and transparent about how we care for our dogs.
📲 WhatsApp: +44 7537 188501
🌐 www.rescuedogsforadoption.co.uk
🔚 Final Message
Informed adoption is safe adoption.
And every dog deserves a chance — with the right care and responsibility.