Bold statement: A sharp rise in Brucellosis is putting both dogs and people at risk—and this is more widespread than you might think. But here’s where it gets controversial: many pet owners underestimate the danger of handling feral pigs and raw pig products. And this is the part most people miss: dogs don’t just catch Brucellosis from direct contact; they can contract it from infected bodily fluids or even by eating contaminated meat.
Overview
A notable increase in Brucellosis cases has alarmed veterinarians and public health officials across the region. Brucellosis is a reproductive disease carried by pigs that can infect dogs and humans, leading to serious illness. With at least one human case reported in Western NSW last month, authorities are urging pig hunters and dog owners to stay informed and vigilant.
Who’s at risk
- Dogs used for pig hunting are especially at risk since they can come into contact with infected pigs during hunts or by consuming raw pig meat or offal.
- Dogs can become infected through bodily fluids from feral pigs, including blood, urine, saliva, and birthing fluids.
- Humans can acquire Brucellosis through open wounds or broken skin, though human cases are very rare in NSW.
Recent trends
Local clinics in Coonamble and Walgett have diagnosed more Brucellosis cases in the past six months than in the previous ten years combined, indicating a clear uptick.
Symptoms and what to do
- In dogs, symptoms may include back pain, lameness, swollen testicles, abortion or difficulty birthing, and fever.
- If your dog shows any of these signs, schedule a veterinary visit for a health assessment and a Brucellosis blood test.
- While waiting for results, take precautions to reduce human exposure: wear gloves and a mask when handling the dog, isolate the dog from other pets, and minimize handling.
Testing considerations
- Currently, there is limited evidence supporting routine Brucellosis testing in healthy, asymptomatic dogs with no known exposure to a diagnosed positive dog.
Prevention recommendations for pig hunting
- Clean equipment, clothing, and vehicles after each hunt, using protective gear such as goggles, a mask, and gloves.
- Do not feed dogs raw feral pig meat, bones, blood, offal, testicles, or other reproductive organs.
- Do not let dogs play with or feed on animal carcasses.
- Wash dogs after each hunt, ideally before leaving the site, while wearing protective gear and keeping distance from others.
- If a dog is wounded while hunting, wear protective gear during first aid (cleaning and covering).
Additional resources
For more information about Brucellosis, visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) page: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/dpi/biosecurity/animal-biosecurity/animal-diseases-of-concern-for-nsw2/brucellosis-brucella-suis
Important note
Brucella suis affects pigs, dogs, and humans. It is not the same as Brucella ovis, which mainly causes reproductive issues in sheep.
