Canada and the US agree on a protocol for the transboundary movement of animals

Canada's Chief Veterinarian (CVO), Mary Jane Ireland, and US CVO , Dr. Rosemary Sifford, released a joint statement yesterday regarding a new protocol governing the transboundary transit of animals in emergencies.

“We are pleased to announce that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the USDA Animal and Plant HEALTH Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) have formally agreed to implement an emergency animal transit policy,” the statement said. .

This policy makes it easier and faster for animals such as livestock, poultry, pets and companion animals to cross the border during emergencies such as floods, wildfires, extreme weather or natural disasters, or when normal transport routes are difficult without alternative possibilities. 

Under the joint policy, the country declaring an emergency will inspect animals, put official seals on vehicles, and issue a simplified health certificate for EXPORT. This joint policy is an example of Canada's and the United States' commitment to protecting their livestock, as well as continuing cooperation to support producers in both countries.

The policy was developed by the CFIA and USDA under the auspices of the Canada-US Regulatory Cooperation Council (RCC), which aims, among other things, to maintain and promote the health, safety and security of Canadians and the environment.