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Importation of Dogs into Canada
For the first time, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) held a National Issues Forum during its annual convention highlighting an issue affecting the veterinary profession in Canada - importation of dogs into Canada.
The 2016 Forum was moderated by Dr. Joanne Dias, the Chair of the CVMA’s National Issues Committee, with presentations from expert panelists:
- Dr. Stephanie Janeczko, Senior Director of Shelter Medical Programs at the ASPCA
- Dr. Shane Bateman, Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences at the Ontario Veterinary College - University of Guelph
- Dr. Andrew Peregrine, an Associate Professor, Clinical Parasitology at the Ontario Veterinary College - University of Guelph.
During the Forum, CVMA members weighed in on the Importation of Dogs into Canada draft CVMA position statement by participating in a question and answer session with panelists and engaging in a live poll. When asked how CVMA should use its finalized position statement, 95 per cent believed it should be used to engage the government on the matter of national leadership and engage stakeholders on educational initiatives. The draft position statement is due to be revised by the National Issues Committee and presented to CVMA Council for approval by the end of 2016 or early 2017.
The first National Issues Forum was sponsored by Royal Canin, and took place on Friday, July 8.
View Dr. Andrew Peregrine’s Presentation
Canine Importation Working Group Releases Report on Importation of Dogs into Canada
CVMA Representatives, Dr. Troy Bourque and Dr. Enid Stiles participated in a Canine Importation Working Group that was established to review the issue of importation of dogs into Canada. The Group was to come up with options and recommendations to:
- Mitigate the risks to animal health (domestic and wildlife) and public health posed by the current system through which dogs are imported from abroad.
- Mitigate the same risks posed by unmonitored movement of animals within Canada (particularly from remote northern regions)
- Address animal welfare issues with regard to transportation of companion animals exhibiting clinical signs of illness within and at Canadian borders.”