The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is reminding transporters and importers that as of January 1, 2012, all shipments of feeder and slaughter horses entering Canada from the United States by ground transportation will be required to proceed through designated ports of entry. Shipments will only be accepted during regular CFIA hours of operation.
The CFIA is implementing these new measures to verify that horses are being humanely transported in accordance with the Health of Animals Regulations.
The designated ports of entry have appropriate unloading facilities for horses and are staffed by CFIA veterinarians.
As of January 1, 2012, shipments of feeder and slaughter horses will not be able to enter Canada at other border ports of entry.
The new requirements apply only to feeder and slaughter horses. Imports of other types of horses (for example, riding or breeding horses) and other types of livestock are not affected by this change.
Feeder horse shipments require customs clearance from the Canada Border Services Agency and may be referred to the CFIA for inspection. All shipments must be presented during CFIA regular hours of operation in order to allow for inspection if required.
Slaughter horse shipments require CFIA veterinary inspection at the border. Transporters must arrange an appointment for inspection a minimum of 24 hours before arriving at the port of entry.
The eight designated ports of entry are listed here
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