[Detection of Brucella canis by immunochromatography method in vague dogs captured in Temuco city, Chile, 2011]

Brucella canis is responsible for brucellosis in dogs, causing reproductive disorders and is considered a zoonoses, as described in several countries. The epidemiological data are scarce in our country.

To determine the prevalence of Brucella canis in vague dogs in Temuco city and housed in the Temuco Kennel.

Quantitative and cross-section study. We used 400 samples of dogs of both sexes, different ages and mainly mixed race, which were tested by immunochromatography.

Antibodies were detected in 4 samples Brucella canis which represented 1% of the population studied, 2 females (0.5%) and 2 males (0.5%).

We conclude that dogs are infected by B. canis in a low range but remains a risk condition to the health of the human population if not maintained adequate sanitary control of pets, like vague dogs.