ink$>">USDA Publishes Final Rule to Help Facilities Be Better Prepared for Emergencies »

December 27, 2012

USDA Publishes Final Rule to Help Facilities Be Better Prepared for Emergencies

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2012--The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is amending its Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations to require all licensed and registered facilities to develop a contingency plan for emergencies so they can better protect their animals in disaster situations. “Over the years we learned that many registered facilities do not have adequate contingency plans for natural disasters and other emergencies,” said APHIS Acting Administrator Kevin Shea. “This rule will give USDA licensees and registrants a greater awareness and understanding of their responsibilities to safeguard their animals and APHIS will provide guidance as needed while giving regulated entities the flexibility to develop a plan that works best for them.” The full text of this press release along with the final rule and a Q&A are available at www.aphis.usda.gov

Posted by sball at 11:17 AM

USDA Publishes Final Rule to Help Ensure Health of Animals While Traveling

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2012— The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has amended the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations to require traveling exhibitors to submit itineraries to the agency 48 hours in advance of travel so that inspectors will know where regulated animals are located. “This rule will help APHIS ensure animals are receiving humane care and treatment while they are away from their main facility,” APHIS Acting Administrator Kevin Shea. The full text of this press release along with the final rule and a Q&A are available on the APHIS Web site at www.aphis.usda.gov

Posted by sball at 10:47 AM

Federal judge upholds Ohio's new exotic animal law

Federal News Radio - http://www.federalnewsradio.com/615/2641472/Federal-judge-upholds-Ohios-new-exotic-animal-law

Posted by sball at 8:33 AM

December 20, 2012

USDA Issues Final Rule for Animal Disease Traceability

For specific details about the regulation and how it will affect producers, visit www.aphis.usda.gov/traceability.

Posted by sball at 2:31 PM