|
 |
 |
What are the requirements for importing animal semen into the U.S.?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) regulates the importation of animals, animal products, animal semen and embryos. Therefore, before importing these goods you should consult with the APHIS to ensure you comply with their regulations. If you are importing animals, animal products, animal semen or embryos for breeding or research purposes the requirement ultimately depends on the breed of the animal and the status of disease in the country the animal originates. For instance, if you are importing semen from livestock animals such as (horses, goats, pigs etc.) you must fill out a VS17-129 and send it to: Veterinary Services APHIS, USDA 4700 River Road Riverdale, Maryland 20737 If you are importing dog or cat semen from countries that do not have diseases that can do harm to agriculture in the U.S., you do not have to obtain a permit from APHIS. However, if you are importing dog or horse semen from a country affected with the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) or the Contagious Equine Metritis (CEM) you may need a permit, foreign issued health certificate, and/or a supplementary certificate, which is also on the APHIS Website. If a permit or certificate is required to import these goods, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection will not release the shipment without the required documents. Therefore, if you import these goods and have not acquired the necessary permit or certificates your shipment will be held until they are acquired. We are aware this can cause an inconvenience and damage to the product. That is why it is essential to obtain the necessary documents before importing these products into the U.S. to avoid your shipment being delayed. For additional information on how to import animals, animal products, animal semen or embryos you should reference the APHIS Website at www.aphis.usda.gov/vs/ncie/importing or you can contact Veterinarian Services at (301) 734-3277.
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), USDA,
http://www.aphis.usda.gov
|
|
|
|
|
