A SPATE of serious brucellosis infections in dogs, including in the state's west, has prompted a warning from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI).
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DPI Senior Veterinary Officer Pigs and Poultry Amanda Lee said four dogs in NSW tested positive for a strain of the disease that originated in pigs.
"Brucellosis (Brucella suis) is a serious infectious disease of pigs that can be passed on to other animals and people through contact with urine, blood, saliva and reproductive materials," Dr Lee said.
"Two pig hunting dogs in north-western NSW have recently tested positive for brucellosis after suspected contact with an infected feral pig in the Moree area."
Dr Lee said two other cases highlighted the risk of brucellosis being transmitted to pups at birth.
"We've also confirmed that a Bull Arab cross living in Sydney, and a Great Dane cross pup in Walgett have tested positive for this disease," Dr Lee said.
She said neither of the dogs had any known contact with feral pigs.
"We suspect the disease may have been passed on by their mother at birth," Dr Lee said.
"It is a crucial reminder for people to be aware of their animal's history and to purchase or obtain pups from reputable breeders."
DPI recommended dogs confirmed infected with brucellosis be euthanased.
"Brucellosis in humans is a potentially fatal disease and symptoms may include intermittent fever, sweating, lethargy, loss of appetite, headache, and back pain," NSW Health Director of Communicable Diseases Branch Dr Vicky Sheppeard said.
NSW Health has contacted owners of infected dogs and vets who treated the dogs.