Important Notice to Dog Breeders and Owners about Canine Brucellosis
 To: Michigan Dog Breeders & Owners
 From: Al W. Stinson, D.V.M
 Vice President
 Director of Legislative Affairs

 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 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 pet, please require (demand) that the stud or bitch
> has passed a Canine brucellosis test through your personal
> veterinarian