Regulations Recommendations & Procedure for International Shipment of Chilled and Cryopreserved Dog Semen (Including Livestock Products) in india

February 18, 2021

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IMPORT OF CANINE- SEMEN INTO-INDIA — IMPORT OF CANINE SEMEN INTO INDIA

Regulations Recommendations & Procedure for International Shipment of Chilled and Cryopreserved Dog Semen (Including Livestock Products) in india

Compiled & edited by-

PRAWEEN SRIVASTAVA,CEO-LBCS

In view of the important progress made in veterinary science and the increasing availability of new reproductive technologies in the 21st century, demand for canine artificial insemination (CAI) for medical and/or breeding management reasons is growing worldwide resulting in raising some legal and ethical concerns. Currently, imported chilled and frozen semen from European countries can be sold to the final consumer with no strings attached.

Preservation and shipment of chilled and cryopreserved dog semen

Artificial insemination (AI) in dogs can be performed with fresh, chilled (4°C) or frozen-thawed (-196°C) semen. Artificial insemination with fresh semen was first described by the Italian priest Spallanzani in 1789. However, it was not until 1954 that the first successful AI using chilled (4°C) dog semen was reported by Harrop. Fifteen years later, Seager (1969) reported the first live offspring following AI with frozen-thawed (- 196°C) canine semen. Because of the obvious advantages and possibilities, AI with chilled and frozen-thawed semen gained increasing interest amongst dog breeders, veterinarians and experimental research facilities worldwide. Chilled and frozen semen makes international transport of genetic material possible, as it is easier and cheaper than the transport of animals. Based on a large study performed in Sweden, the possibility for the international exchange of genetic material is the most important reason for performing AI in dogs (Linde-Forsberg and Forsberg, 1993). Moreover, AI with chilled and especially frozen-thawed semen makes it possible to valuable genetic material at a later time (even after the death of the dog) and has several economic and sanitary advantages (Rijsselaere et al., 2001, 2010; Van Soom et al., 2001). Currently, in Europe, the percentages of canine AI’s performed by veterinarians using either fresh, chilled or frozen-thawed semen are 50-55%, 10% and 35-40%, respectively (Linde-Forsberg et al., 2010).

SPERM COLLECTION AND EVALUATION

Dog sperm is generally collected by digital manipulation and stimulation of the bulbus penis (LindeForsberg, 1991). A quiet environment and the presence of a teaser bitch are advised for less experienced dogs. Alternatively, a vaginal swab of a bitch in oestrus which was collected previously and stored in the freezer (-20°C), can be used to stimulate the male. In case of experienced stud dogs however, sperm collection is usually possible without any extra stimulation. The three fractions of the ejaculate are collected in separate, pre-warmed plastic vials. The first and the third fractions originate from the prostate (the only secondary gland in the dog); the second sperm-rich fraction usually consists of 0.5 to 5 ml sperm. Immediately after collection, the sperm-rich fraction is evaluated macroscopically (volume, color, admixtures and homogeneity) and microscopically (motility, concentration, morphology and membrane integrity) especially when the sample is to be chilled or frozen and transported. Motility (total and progressive) can be assessed subjectively on a pre-warmed glass slide on a scale from 0 to 100%. The sperm concentration can be determined using a counting chamber (e.g. Bürker or Thoma chamber) after a 1:40 dilution with tap water or diluted formol resulting in immobility of the spermatozoa. The percentage of normal and membrane intact spermatozoa is generally examined on eosin-nigrosin stained smears by assessing at least 100 spermatozoa individually. The morphology can also be evaluated using a Diff-Quick staining. During the last decade, several new techniques for sperm assessment, such as computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and fluorescent staining techniques, have been described in dogs. They allow a more detailed and objective sperm assessment (Verstegen et al., 2002; Rijsselaere et al., 2005, 2007). A certificate with the results of the sperm evaluation immediately after collection should always accompany the sperm when transported. An example of a sperm certificate is shown in Figure 1.

SEMEN EXTENDERS

Since spermatozoa are metabolically relatively inert, the extracellular environment plays a crucial role in their survival. Prostatic fluid appeared not to be an appropriate medium for prolonged preservation of canine spermatozoa at 4°C (England and Allen, 1992). Spermatozoa which are preserved either chilled (4°C) or frozen (-196°C) should therefore be diluted in a proper extender. Many different extenders have been described and are currently available. They have been proven to be suitable in both in vitro and in vivo studies. In general, a semen extender should protect the spermatozoa from cold shock during cooling (by adding 10-20% egg yolk or skim milk), it should provide energy substrates (sugars such as fructose or glucose) and maintain the spermatozoa at a constant pH and osmolarity by adding buffers (England, 1993). To prevent the growth of bacteria, semen extenders should also contain some antibiotics (mostly penicillin or streptomycin). If the semen is frozen, cryoprotectants, such as glycerol, should be added. These extenders can be home-made by the veterinarian, they can be purchased at local universities or by several commercial companies. In this respect, the Tris-citric acid-egg-yolk-fructose based extenders (also referred to as the Uppsala diluents) are probably the most documented and used extenders for the preservation of dog sperm (LindeForsberg, 2002). Because egg yolk is a biologically hazardous compound, studies are performed replacing egg yolk by egg yolk derived phospholipids or vegetable lecithin to avoid using substances of animal origin (Farstad, 2009).

CHILLING SEMEN AND TRANSPORT

The use of chilled semen is especially interesting when the semen is to be transported over short distances (within Europe) because it is easier and cheaper than using cryopreserved semen. A good follow-up of the bitch to determine ovulation and consequently to determine the ideal insemination days, is crucial because it is better to inseminate the semen as quick as possible after collection. In general, semen can be delivered in most of the European countries within 24 to 48 hours. To chill a sperm sample, the second sperm-rich fraction can be diluted with Tris-citric acid-fructose diluent with 20% egg yolk in a proportion of 1:3 to 1:4 (1 mL of semen with 3 to 4 mL of diluent). Subse quently, the diluted sperm sample is placed in a water bowl (at 37°C) and slowly cooled (in a ‘bain-marie’) in the fridge to 4 or 5°C (Figure 2). The diluted semen can be stored at 4-5°C for up to 10 days, dependent on the type of extender used and the original semen quality. Some extenders can even preserve the sperm quality in vitro for up to 27 days provided that the sperm diluents are refreshed every 10 days (Iguer-ouada and Verstegen, 2001). Chilled semen can be transported in a thermos flask, a styrofoam box or a minitübe neopore box (Figure 3A, 3B). In the past, a thermos flask and styrofoam box were frequently used but nowadays the minitübe neopore box is becoming more popular because it is very practical, cheap and easy to use. Using this method, the extended semen sample is placed directly into the box at room temperature and is cooled gradually by inserting 2 ice packs (stored at -20°C in the freezer) in the box during transport. The required temperature of 4-5°C is maintained for up to 48 hours (Linde-Forsberg, 2010). When receiving a chilled sperm sample, it is important to immediately assess the sperm quality to ensure that the transport was uneventful. Chilled semen can be inseminated in the bitch either at 4°C or after warming the sample to 37°C (Rijsselaere et al., 2010).

FREEZING SEMEN AND TRANSPORT

The use of frozen dog sperm is especially indicated when transport over larger distances is required or when the genetic material of the stud dog will be used at a later time. The freezing of dog sperm is a rather complicated and time consuming procedure which is mostly performed at universities or large veterinary clinics. In Belgium, the kennel club Sint-Hubertus only allows dog sperm to be frozen in an official university centre (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Ghent or Liège) and only after approval of the stud dog by the kennel club. Numerous procedures have been described for canine cryopreservation with variable results. Our department consistently uses the ‘Uppsala method’ with slight modifications (Linde-Forsberg 2001, 2010). In short, the second sperm-rich fraction is diluted with a Tris-citric acid-egg-yolk-fructose based extender with glycerol (3%) and chilled to 4-5°C for 1-2h (= equilibration period). Subsequently, a second extender with Equex and a higher percentage of glycerol (7%) is added and the sperm is packaged in straws (0.5 or 0.25 ml) or in pellets. Both are considered to be equally good but 0.5 ml straws are more practical to handle and label. Straws should consistently be labelled with date, name of the dog, breed, tattoo or chip number and freezing centre. Finally, the straws are placed on a rack which is located several centimetres above the level of liquid nitrogen. By making variations in the distance of the sperm straws to the level of liquid nitrogen, for variable periods of time, different freezing rates are created. The above mentioned freezing technique is a ‘static method’, it is easy to conduct but allows only little control over the actual freezing rate. The repeatability of a freezing protocol can be improved when programmable automated freezing devices (= dynamic method) are used, such as the Mini Digitcool, the Planer 10 TM or IceCube (Sy-Lab) (SchaferSomi et al., 2006), which may be useful when a large number of straws are frozen simultaneously (Figure 4). However, automated programmable freezers are very expensive. Following the cryopreservation procedure, the straws can be stored in a liquid nitrogen container (Figure 5A), if necessary for years until they are thawed and used for the insemination of a bitch or they can be transported abroad in a dry shipper (Figure 5B). The costs for the transport of dry-shippers are in general high due to the weight of the container (10-20 kg). Moreover, many airlines and transport companies are reluctant to ship them. Recently, a new single-use dry-shipper 3L (ST Technologies, USA) has been introduced. This shipper only weighs 4.5 kg when filled. It has a holding time of approximately four days and it is intended for a one-way shipment reducing the costs to about 1/4th compared to normal dry shippers (LindeForsberg, 2010). Additionally, on some airlines, this new dry shipper is accepted as hand luggage (LindeForsberg, 2010). Before inseminating the frozen semen, the straws should be thawed in a water bath at 37°C for 30 or 60 seconds or in a water bath at 70°C for 6-7 seconds. In this respect, it is very important to consistently follow the thawing instructions of the freezing centre which should always accompany the shipment!

FREEZING OF CHILLED SEMEN

Several studies have shown that semen which was previously chilled for two to three days at 4°C, can subsequently be frozen successfully. This makes it possible to collect, to chill and transport the dog semen to a nearby semen bank where it can be cryopreserved and stored at -196°C for AI at a later time (Verstegen et al., 2005; Hermansson and Linde-Forsberg, 2006).

Canine Frozen Semen FAQ

WHY HAVE FROZEN SEMEN?

Long Term Storage – If your stud has positive enduring qualities which should be preserved for the breed or your own future breeding program, you should have his semen frozen. This will guarantee his breeding availability for future generations.

For Breedings When The Stud Is Not Available – There are times when the stud dog is not available when an individual bitch needs to be bred. The reason may be due to a show or trial schedule, booked stud services, temporary illness or injury or any other logistical scheduling conflict that could limit a stud’s availability.

Long Distance and International Breeding – Long distance breedings may be accomplished without shipping either the bitch or stud dog by using either chilled/extended or frozen semen.

HOW IS SEMEN COLLECTED

Semen is collected from the stud dog by manual stimulation. The different parts, or fractions, of the ejaculate are collected separately so that good quality sperm-rich semen is frozen and stored. In general, semen of best quality and higher counts are collected when the stud dog’s libido is high. We try to simulate a typical breeding situation for each stud and encourage owners to provide a bitch in heat to use as a “teaser”. In addition, if the stud dog associates a particular item with breeding, such as a rug, table, breeding rack, etc., that item may be helpful and should be brought to the appointment. If appropriate, we may recommend an injection that is temporary and without lasting effects to help increase libido. It is often recommended to wait for a teaser prior to scheduling a frozen semen collection appointment unless time constraints exist.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE SEMEN IS COLLECTED?

Immediately after the collection, the semen is evaluated microscopically. We have a video screen attached to the microscope that enables us to show you the sample as it is analyzed. If the quality is acceptable for freezing, the sample is then extended with a buffer solution that protects the cells during freezing and thawing. A sperm count is performed and the sample is further diluted to a uniform concentration. The diluted semen sample is then divided into multiple individually labeled straws – the number of straws is determined by the initial sperm count. After a gradual cooling and freezing process, one “partial” straw is thawed and examined for motility and quality. An average post thaw motility is 40-60% – this means that 40-60% of the original sperm cells have survived the freeze and thaw process.

HOW LONG DOES THE COLLECTION AND FREEZE PROCESS TAKE?

Typically the entire process takes 3-4 hours from the time of the collection. However, clients need only be present for the collection process which may take 15-30 minutes. Additional time may be required in the office as all appropriate paperwork needs to be complete at the time of collection.

HOW AND WHERE IS THE FROZEN SEMEN STORED?

We are an AKC approved permanent storage facility. Frozen semen is stored within our facility in a specialized insulated container called a dewar that contains liquid nitrogen. The frozen semen is held in liquid nitrogen vapors at a temperature of -196 degrees Centigrade or approximately 300 degrees below zero Fahrenheit. This temperature is maintained and keeps the semen viable indefinitely. Since the container does not require electricity, there is no fear of accidental thawing due to a power failure.

HOW MUCH SEMEN WILL BE STORED FROM EACH COLLECTION?

The number of straws stored is directly dependant on your stud dog’s sperm count. The quantity and quality of semen produced in one ejaculate can vary, sometimes considerably in a short period of time from dog to dog and collection to collection. Factors that can affect your stud’s semen quality include:

Age – In general, a young mature dog (2-4 years of age) will have a higher sperm count and better quality semen than older or immature dogs.

General Health Status – An ill or stressed dog will rarely produce good quality semen. It can take as long as 3-6 months following recovery from illness or marked stress for the ejaculate to return to normal. Some medications, both prescription and over the counter, can affect sperm production.

Size – In general, large breeds produce more sperm cells than smaller breeds. Toy breeds will often need to have semen collections done several times to store enough sperm to breed one bitch, whereas a large or giant breed might produce enough sperm in one collection to inseminate multiple bitches. It is the number of sperm cells, not the volume of the collection that is important.

Disposition and Temperament – In general, an experienced stud dog produces better semen quality than one who doesn’t fully understand the collection process and what is expected of him. It may be advisable to have a young or inexperienced dog collected once or twice prior to having semen stored in order to acclimate him to the process. If a stud dog is shy or nervous, his semen numbers may be poor and preclude freezing and storing the collection. In addition, a dog that is accustomed to having people around and being handled while breeding will fare better when having semen collected. We strive to simulate a natural breeding for a frozen semen collection attempt – a bitch in heat standing in front of the stud dog assists the collection process.

IS IT WORTHWHILE TO ATTEMPT SEMEN FREEZING WITH AN UNPROVEN STUD?…..AN OLDER STUD?…..AN ILL DOG?

If a dog is producing motile sperm cells, it is useful to attempt to freeze his semen. Generally, if semen numbers and/or quality are compromised, only a small quantity of viable sperm cells will be stored. While this will give you an “insurance policy” bank of semen, every attempt should be made to either breed your stud with fresh semen or improve semen quality and freeze subsequent collections.

WHAT KIND OF PAPERWORK AND RECORD KEEPING ARE NECESSARY?

A copy of the stud’s individual registration papers and positive identification including microchip or tattoo and current photos are usually required. The stud owner’s signature must be obtained so that we may file appropriate paperwork with the stud dog’s registration body. After the semen is collected and stored, the stud dog owner will receive written information regarding the collection statistics and a yearly storage bill.

WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE FOR A BREEDING WITH FROZEN SEMEN?

Individual success will vary depending on the semen quality, bitch fertility and procedures used for the breeding. Parameters exist for the appropriate use of frozen semen for a breeding and should be investigated in advance of a bitch’s heat cycle. Often it is a better option to delay the use of frozen semen until the stud dog is deceased or cannot provide fresh semen for any reason.

REGULATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SHIPMENT

The rules for the shipment of chilled and frozen dog semen are rather complicated and differ from country to country. Some countries such as Belgium are ‘easy’ (category 1), while other countries such as Australia, are very strict regarding the import of dog semen (category 4). Original import permits, a health certificate, several serological tests (for Brucella Canis and Leptospirosis) are only some of the requirements. The importation of chilled and cryopreserved dog semen into Belgium however, is currently not subject to any restrictions, due to the lack of regulations. It should also be kept in mind that national legislation and regulations applied by the local kennel club may change in time. Moreover, the rules for importing chilled semen may be different from those applying to frozen semen. An excellent overview of the regulations and recommendations for shipment of chilled and frozen dog semen including many countries worldwide is published by Linde-Forsberg (2001) on the IVIS website (http://www.ivis.org/home.asp). It is therefore very important to advise the importer or dog owner to contact the Ministry of Agriculture (or local authority) to inform them about the current rules and regulations of a particular country. This should be done well in advance of the planned sperm collection and transport in order to be able to carry out all the necessary blood tests, health requirements and paper work.

Canine Semen International Shipping Checklist

The following checklist is provided for dog breeders to assist with shipping canine semen.

Import Permit

The owner of the receiving bitch in the importing country needs to obtain an Import Permit. This permit will outline all requirements for importing into their country, including the requirements that the stud owner needs to fulfill to get the frozen semen legally shipped into the importing country. Every country has requirements and requirements can change often without warning.

Documents usually needed to fulfill custom requirements include:

Import Permit
Health Certificate as described in the Import Permit. Original Import Permits along with any Health Certificates/Certifications usually must be included with the shipment.
Health Certifications/Laboratory testing performed within the time frame required by the import permit. Some countries require specific testing protocols and/or that health testing is done by a government approved lab. Not all veterinary labs are government approved. Required testing may include:
- Canine Distemper
- Canine Parvovirus
- Infectious Canine Hepatitis
- Leptospirosis
- Rabies
- Rabies Titer
- Brucella Canis
Certificate of Origin
Official Veterinary Certificate: USDA-approved veterinarian’s health certificate and testing results may be required. Refer to the Import Permit.
Documentation of identity of donor dog. These may include:
- DNA
- Microchip Number
- Tattoo Number
Frozen Semen Shipping Tank – refer to import permit; some countries require a new, previously unused shipping tank.

International Information – These requirements change frequently and should be checked prior to shipping semen.

Ministry of Agriculture Requirements

When it comes to the national legislations pertaining to the importation of dog semen, countries basically fall into one of the four categories listed below.

Category 1 – No regulations, which may mean either that anything is allowed or that nothing is allowed in the way of semen import. Thus, the prevailing policy obviously needs to be checked. In general, however, the lack of regulations means that the importation of dog semen is not subject to any restrictions.

Category 2 – A request for an import permit is needed, with no further requirements.

Category 3 – There is a requirement for an import permit and a veterinary health certificate for the semen donor issued at the time of semen collection, and/or at a stipulated time interval before, and/or after semen collection.

Category 4 – There is a requirement for an import permit and a health certificate and for a serological test for leptospirosis (usually l. canicola and l. ichterhaemorrhagica) and/or for Brucella canis. Note that the blood samples in some cases should be taken prior to (usually within 15 – 45 days before), in other cases at the time of, and sometimes after (usually 20 – 30 days, or 3 – 6 weeks after) semen collection.

Denmark (category 3+)

The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, (Ministeriet for Fodevarer, Landbrug og Fiskeri), Morkhoj Bygade 19, DK 2860

Soborg, Denmark. Website:www.foedevaredirektoratet.dk/vnyt,

E-mail:foedevaredirektoratet@fdir.dk, Phone: +45 33.95.60.00, Fax:

+45 33.95.62.89.

The Danish Kennel Club (Dansk Kennel Klub), Parkvej 1, Jersie Strand, DK-2680 Solrod Strand, Denmark. Phone: +45 56.18.81.00;

Fax: +45 53.18.81.91,Website:www.dansk_kennel_klub.dk

Requirements: The importer needs to apply for a registration as importer in writing to the “Veterinaerdirektoratet, 1. Afdeling, Rolighedsvej 25, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark” at least 5 days before the import, stating the country of origin of the semen. The import permit will thereafter be sent out together with the relevant regulations and veterinary forms. A veterinary health certificate is required. For semen from rabies countries the dog must also be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days and not more than 12 months before the collection of semen. The Kennel Club has no rules for litters by chilled imported semen.

Frozen semen to be imported must have been collected by a veterinarian, who also issues a health certificate, and states that the dog has normal testicles. The dog must be ID-tattooed or micro chipped. The semen should be frozen in straws, which must be clearly marked. A special certificate is necessary for registration of the litter, and can be ordered from the KC.

The Netherlands (category 1)

The Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature Management and Fisheries The Dutch Kennel Club (Rad van Beheer op Kynologish

Gebeid in Nederland), Postbus 75901, 1070 AX, Amsterdam Z, The Netherlans. Phone: +31 20 664 4471; Fax: +31 20 671 0846;

Website:www.minlnv.nl

The Dutch Kennel Club (Rad van Beheer), Website:www.kennelclub.nl

Requirements: None.

New Zealand (categories 3+ and 4+)

The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry P.O. Box 2526, Wellington, New Zealand.

Website:www.maf.govt.nz/AnimallHS/countries3-5html

The New Zealand Kennel Club, The New Zealand Kennel Club, Prosser Street, Eldsor, Private bag 50903, Porirus, New Zealand.

Phone:+64 4 237 4498; Fax: +64 4 237 0721; Email:nzkc@nzkc.org.nz; Website:www.nzk.org.nz

Requirements:

From Australia: An import permit, a Zoo-sanitary certificate and a veterinary health certificate. Semen should have been collected in the presence of a veterinarian. The ampoules, straws or pellets containing the semen must be sealed following collection, identified with the details of the donor dog, securely packed in a new/unused container using coolant which has not been used for any other purpose, and been stored under veterinary supervision until the time of export.

From The United Kingdom and The Republic of Ireland: An import permit. The original permit should accompany the consignment to New Zealand. A veterinary health certificate issued immediately before, and again between 3 – 6 weeks after the collection of the semen. A blood test for leptospirosis within 6 weeks before semen collection. A blood test for Brucella canis between 3 – 6 weeks after collection of the semen. The donor dog must have been resident in the country for at least 2 months prior to the semen collection. Identification of the dog and straws etc as above. The country of export must have been free from rabies for at least 12 months, and the donor dog must not have been vaccinated against rabies with a live vaccine during the 6 months preceding collection of the semen.

From Hawaii, Norway and Sweden: An import permit. The original permit should accompany the consignment to New Zealand. A health certificate issued immediately before, and again between 3 – 6 weeks after collection of the semen. A blood test for Brucella canis taken during 14 days prior to semen collection. The donor dog must have been resident in the country for at least 2 months prior to the semen collection. The semen must be held frozen for at least 21 days after collection and a new veterinary certificate be made stating that the donor dog is still healthy. Identification of dog and straws etc as above. The country of export must have been free from rabies for at least 12 months, and the donor dog must not have been vaccinated against rabies with a live vaccine during the 6 months preceding collection of the semen.

From Canada and The United States: As above with the following additions: The donor dog must not during the 6 months prior to semen collection have been on any property on which rabies has been diagnosed in the previous 12 months. The dog should

be vaccinated against rabies with an inactivated cell culture origin vaccine, and the vaccination programme be completed not more than 12 months and not less than 30 days prior to semen collection. A blood test for Brucella canis within 3 – 6 weeks after semen collection. A blood test for leptospirosis within 3 – 6 weeks after semen collection, or two tests not less than 30 days apart with no rise in titre between tests and treatment with specified antibiotics during the 30 days prior to semen collection.

United Kingdom/Great Britain (category 3+)

Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF), 1A Page Street, London, SW1P 4PQ, United Kingdom.

Website:www.maff.gov.uk, E-mail:germplasmimports@ahvg.maff.gov.uk or, E-mail:germplasmexports@ahvg.maff.gov.uk, both

Fax: +44 20.7904.6395.

The Kennel Club, Clarges street, London. Website:www.the-kennel-club-org.uk

Requirements: An import permit, which is valid for 8 months. From rabies free countries: Country disease clearance. A veterinary health certificate. The donor dog must have been resident in the country for the last 12 months and not been vaccinated against rabies with a live vaccine during the 6 months prior to semen collection. The semen must not be despatched until a new health check has been made after 14 days. From non rabies free countries: The dog must be microchipped. The semen must not be despatched from the exporting country until 6 months after the semen collection, and a new health certificate then be issued. The dog must not have been vaccinated against rabies with a live vaccine during the 6 months prior to semen collection. The dog must not be under any quarantine restrictions. The Kennel Club requests prior application for permission to perform AI.

United States of America (category 1)

United States Drug Administration (USDA) P.O. Box 3220, Minneapolis, MN 55403-1503, USA.

American Kennel Club (AKC), 8051 Arco Corporate Drive Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27617, USA. Phone: +1 919.233.9767 or

+1 919.854.0124; Fax: +1 919.233.3627 or +1 919.854.0102; Website:www.akc.org

Requirements: As from October 2000 no import permit is required for dog semen. The AKC requests a prior application to permit AI by imported semen. They also request a DNA sample, which can be ordered via E-mail:dna@akc.org.

Procedure for Import of Live Stock Products into India.

Sanitary Import Permit for Animal Product

Sanitary Import Permit for Animal Products Imports

The Ministry of Agriculture issued a notification on 7 July 2001, which requires animal products importers to produce a sanitary permit at the customs gate before entry into the country. Meat and meat products, eggs, milk products, pet food, embryos, ova or semen and other live stock products from livestock are hit by the notification issued under the 100 years old Live Stock Importation Act, 1998.

The livestock definition covers mules, asses, bulls, calves, bullocks, buffaloes, goats, swine, dogs, cats, poultry, parrots, pigeons, canaries and finches. Only products of livestock animals are in the dispensation. It would seem that fish and other seafood are excluded ad their import does not require the sanitary permit. Similarly, only specific parts and products are covered. For example, bones of bovine animals can e imported freely without the permit.

Separate application forms for personal consumption and trading are prescribed in the notification. Te trade division in department of animal husbandry and dairying will analyse the information contained in the application with reference to the risk posed by the import on the health of the animal and human population of the country. They will se internationally recognized scientific principles with reference to the specific product and the disease situation in the exporting country and India. If the finding in the risk analysis is positive, the trade division is duty bound to reject the permit application. The actual fact of the threat to the animal and human life in India as evidenced by the state of the actual product at the customs port will not be taken into consideration while deciding on the application. Special conditions like pre-shipment certification and quarantine checks at any stage may also be imposed on the consignment. The permit is valid for six months with a provision for a six-month extension.

The trader has to give a large amount of detail in the application form, most of which may not be true when the event of actual import takes place. He or she must give the detail of the producer, country and locality where the livestock product was produced and the country from which shipment took place.

The immediate implication of the permit condition for entry is that normal inflows of animal foods will be stopped by the customs. The consignments under the sanitary permit system are allowed for import only through the ports of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.
Bird Flu: There is a ban on import of all type of birds and products from birds imported from Hong Kong China, Honduras, Italy, Laos and Pakistan on account of the outbreak of avian influenza, also known as fowl plague in these countries. The order issued on 16 July under the Livestock Importation Act, 1898 is valid for six months

2 Procedure for Import of Live Stock Products into India

[Ref: Notification issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, New Delhi on 07 July, 2001. F. No. 109-6/2001- Trade]

In exercise of the powers conferred y Section 3A f the Live-Stock Importation Act 1898 (9 of 1898), the Central Government hereby restricts, with effect from the date of publication of this notification in the Official Gazette, the import into India of all live-stock products. Including-

Meat and products of all kinds of including fresh, chilled and frozen meat, tissue or poultry, pig, sheep, goat;
Egg ad egg power;

Milk and milk products;

Bovine, ovine and caprine embryos, ova or semen; and
Pet food products of animal origin;

The import of these products shall be allowed only against a sanitary import permit to be issued by this Department as per the procedure laid down in the Schedule annexed to this notification.

3 Import of Livestock Products

Circular No. 43/2001-CUS The undersigned is directed to say Livestock Importation Act, 1898 (9 of 1898) has been amended vide the Livestock Importation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2001 which was promulgated on 5th July 2001. Prior to amendment, the said Act was applicable only livestock whereas livestock products were not regulated under the Act. The amendment to the said Act has been made to regulate the import of livestock products in such manner that these imports do not adversely affect the human and animal health population f the country. In exercise of the powers of the Central Government under the amended Livestock Importation Act, 1898, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has issued a notification dated 7th July, 2001 to regulate the import f livestock products as per the procedure aid down in the Schedule annexed to the said notification ad the Schedule thereto is enclosed for reference.
The notification inter-alia provides that import of livestock products will e allowed against valid sanitary import permits issued by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying and the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying and the same will be allowed trough the airport and seaports at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai only which have Animal Quarantine and certification Services Station.
You are requested to kindly bring the contents of the notification and the Schedule thereto to the notice of all concerned immediately by way of issue of a suitable Pubic Notice and Standing Order and ensure strict compliance f the provision of the aforesaid regulation is over and above the fulfillment complied with as per notification issued by DGFT, vide which if any mandatory standards are prescribed under the Prevention of Food Products Order, etc. before imports are allowed. The consignment can also e checked for microbiological and other contaminants under the relevant laws, if such standards have been laid down for Indian products.
Boards also desire that meeting between Quarantine/ Veterinary Officers and your officers be organized where officers from Department of Animal husbandry and Dairying and Commerce Ministry could also be invited for effective implementation of the aforesaid notification. Difficulties may be brought to the notice of the Board. Kindly acknowledge receipt of the Circular.

4 Perishable Fish Items Import Allowed through Petapole Land Route

Subject: Import of livestock Products

48-CBEC 28.11.2005 The undersigned is directed refer to Board’s Circular No.43/2001-Cus, dated .8.201 issued in pursuance to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying’s notification dated 7th July 2001 to regulate the import of livestock products as provided therein. The notification inter-alia provides that import of livestock products at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai only, which have Animal Quarantine and Certification Services Station.
Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture has issued a notification S.O.No.770 (E), dated 7.7. 2001. Accordingly, it as been provided that import of perishable fish items, excluding seed material for breeding or rearing proposes, the import shall be allowed to land at Petrapole, District North 24 Parganas, west Bengal, through land route.
Board has considered the manner. In view of the amending notification issued by Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, import of perishable fish items, exclusively meant for human consumption but excluding seed material for breeding or rearing purposes, shall be allowed at Petrapole, District North 24 Parganas, west Bengal, through lad route.
Accordingly Board’s Circular No.43-2001-Cus. Dated 6.8.2001 and instruction issued vide F. No.450/132/2004-Cus.IV, dated 4.01.200 should be read as amended to above extent.

5 DGFT Licence Required for Livestock and Livestock Products

DGFT PN No. 06 Dated 10.03.2005 (CoC Mumbai) Attention of the importers, CHAs and members of the trade is invited on the provisions regarding importation of live animals/livestock products through the Ports/ Airports.
The Board has issued a circular No. 43/2001-Cus. Dated 06.08.201 which, ineralia, provided for restriction on the imports of livestock products through the seaports or airports located at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, where the animal Quarantine and certification Services Station are located.
The Exim policy, restricts the importation of any lie animal (livestock) i.e. importation is allowed only issued of Licence, the DGFT requires the recommendation of the State; Director, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services of the state or the department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Ministry of agriculture; Department of Agriculture and co-operation, import of wide Animal (including their arts and products) as defined n the Wide Life (Protection) Act 1972 is prohibited.
All CHAs, member of trade are required to strictly comply with the provisions of the extant laws regarding importation of livestock and livestock products & wide animals. It is informed that importation of livestock/livestock products and wild animals without quarantine clearance and without fulfillment of Exim Policy as applicable will not be allowed.

6 Prohibition on Import of Birds and Birds Products (Fowl Plague)

The department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has banned the import of birds and bird products from select European and South Asian countries following the outbreak of bird flu in these countries.[Ref: Notification Dated 19th June, 2003 Published in the Gazette of India on 23 rd June, 2003]
In exercise of the powers conferred by Sub-Section (1) of Section 3 and section 3A of the Livestock Importation Act, 1898 (9 of 1898), and in super session of the notification of the government f India in the Ministry of Agriculture (Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying) number S.O. 801(E) dated 17th August, 2001, except as resects things done or omitted to be done before such super session, the Central Government hereby prohibits, with effect from date of publication of this notification, import into India from Belgium, Chile, Hong Kong(P.R China), Germany Italy, Netherlands, Senegal, Pakistan and such the country reporting the outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (Fowl Plague), the following livestock and livestock products, namely:

Domestic and wild birds including the captive birds (excluding poultry);
Unprocessed meat ad meat products from Avian species including wild birds (except paltry);

Semen of domestic and wield birds.Further, the Central Government hereby prohibits also the import into India from the countries reporting the outbreak of highly Pathogenic Avian influenza (Fowl Plague), the following livestock and livestock products, namely:
1. Live poultry;
2. Day old chicks, ducks, turkey and other newly hatched avian species;