Bacillus

Brucellosis

Cows

Abortion is the most obvious manifestation. Infections may also cause stillborn or weak calves, retained placentas, and reduced milk yield. Usually, general health is not impaired in uncomplicated abortions. Seminal vesicles, ampullae, testicles, and epididymides may be infected in bulls; therefore, organisms are present in the semen. Agglutinins may be demonstrated in seminal plasma from infected bulls. Testicular abscesses may occur. Longstanding infections may result in arthritic joints in some cattle.

Nicoletti, P. (2011, July). Brucellosis in cattle. Retrieved from http://www.merckmanuals.com/vet/reproductive_system/brucellosis_in_large_animals/brucellosis_in_cattle.html?qt=Brucellosis &alt=sh

Dogs

Abortion during the last trimester of pregnancy without premonitory signs, stillbirths, and conception failures. Prolonged vaginal discharge usually follows abortion. Abortions may occur during subsequent pregnancies. Infected dogs may develop generalized lymphadenitis and frequently epididymitis, periorchitis, and prostatitis. Spondylitis and uveitis are occasional complications. Bacteremia is frequent and persists for ~18 mo after exposure. Fever is not characteristic. Diagnosis is based on isolation and identification of the causative agent or by serology. The organisms can usually be readily isolated from vaginal exudate, aborted pups, blood, milk, or semen of infected dogs.

Nicoletti, P. (2011, July). Overview of brucellosis in dogs. Retrieved from http://www.merckmanuals.com/vet/reproductive_system/brucellosis_in_dogs/overview_of_brucellosis_in_dogs.html?qt=Brucellosis &alt=sh

Goats

Abortion about the fourth month of pregnancy. Arthritis and orchitis may occur. Diagnosis is made by bacteriologic examination of milk or an aborted fetus or by serum agglutination tests.

Nicoletti, P. (2011, July). Brucellosis in goats. Retrieved from...