New testing rules for dogs imported from Romania

Dogs must test negative for Brucella canis at least 30 days before arriving on the island

New rules that mean dogs imported to the Isle of Man from Romania must be tested for a rare disease that can be passed to humans have come into force.

Potential owners must now ensure their animal has tested negative for the condition Brucella canis at least 30 days before arriving on the island.

Cases had "steadily increased "in Great Britain since 2020, with about 50% of infections "linked to dogs imported from Romania", the government said.

The change, which brings the island in line with new UK requirements, was "a necessary step to safeguard both animal and human health", the island's chief vet Amy Beckett said.

The new rules bring the island in line with the UK

Transmitted through a dog's reproductive fluids, the disease can present in humans as a short-term fever with flu-like symptoms such as aching muscles, but can cause longer-term complications such as bone and joint disease in some cases.

Under the new rules, an authorised veterinarian in Romania must take a sample and send it to the UK's Animal and Plant Health Agency for testing prior to the animal being imported.

The process applies to dogs being imported for sale or rehoming, and to anyone travelling with more than five dogs, unless they are going to shows, competitions or training events.

Dr Beckett said: "Anyone considering getting a dog should make sure they are fully prepared for the responsibility.

"Importing dogs without the proper health checks or testing can increase the risk of introducing serious diseases like Brucella canis into the Isle of Man," she said.