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The CVMA Supports CFIA’s Decision to Prohibit Entry of Commercial Dogs from Countries at High-Risk for Dog Rabies
June 28, 2022
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced, effective September 28, 2022, World Rabies Day, commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies will no longer be permitted entry into Canada. Commercial dogs can include, but are not limited to, dogs for resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition, research, and other purposes. The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) supports this decision in the interest of animal and human health by preventing the introduction and spread of dog rabies into Canada.
While rabies is found in wildlife such as skunks, foxes, raccoons, and bats in our country, Canada does not have rabies caused by canine-variant viruses (dog rabies), and the intent is to prevent it from establishing. Dog rabies virus can be transmitted between mammals, including to humans. It is a fatal disease of the central nervous system.
The CVMA looks forward to working with the CFIA in the next phase of this initiative to further strengthen the requirements for the import of personal pet dogs and assistance dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies.
The CVMA supports the CFIA’s commitment to protecting Canada’s food, animals, and plants to enhance the health and wellbeing of Canada’s people, environment, and economy.
Please read the CFIA’s full statement below: