On October 10th, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a notice in the Federal Register announcing its intention to apply the current air carrier provisions of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations to foreign carriers. Public comment is invited by December 9th, and AKC intends to submit a letter of support. Unless the USDA receives substantial objections, enforcement is expected to begin by April 7, 2004.
For years, AWA regulations and standards for humane transport of animals have been enforced on US carriers while foreign carriers have not been required to comply. The American Kennel Club believes animals being transported by foreign carriers should be given the same protection as those traveling on domestic carriers. AKC worked closely with the Air Transport Authority (ATA), the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) and Members of Congress to encourage USDA to take this positive step.
On October 10th, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a notice in
the Federal…