Source · Select Committees · Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
Recommendation 22
22
Rejected
Paragraph: 94
Mandate pre-import screening and testing for dogs from countries with endemic diseases.
Recommendation
The Government should mandate pre-import screening measures to control and restrict the movement of dogs from countries which have endemic diseases, such as Brucella canis and leishmaniasis, that are not present in the UK. Accordingly, all imported dogs from these countries should be tested for relevant non-endemic diseases.
Government Response Summary
The government rejects the recommendation to mandate pre-import screening, stating it will not seek to make this change at this time. It notes existing powers to introduce measures if necessary and advises prospective owners to ensure dogs are tested before import.
Paragraph Reference:
94
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
The Government takes biosecurity seriously but would not seek to make this change at this time. Disease risk is monitored carefully and is kept under constant review. Where necessary we have the powers in legislation to introduce preventive health measures to protect animal or public health by controlling diseases or infections that are likely to be spread due to the movement of pet animals into Great Britain. We remain aware of the concerns around non-endemic diseases and will consider any further actions as appropriate. Our future policy will be guided by risk assessment. We recommend prospective owners make sure any dog imported from regions where non-endemic diseases are present are tested before arrival.