USDA proposes change to temperature rules for live animal transport

USDA proposes change to temperature rules for live animal transport The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service proposes to amend the Animal Welfare Act regulations governing the transportation temperature for live animals.
   The agency seeks to remove the current ambient temperature requirements for various stages in the transport of regulated animals, excluding marine mammals. The proposed rules offer a single performance standard under which the animals would be transported under climatic and environment conditions that are appropriate for their welfare, eliminating the need for acclimation certifications.
   The proposal would also require transport compartments on planes to be opened during prolonged layovers, as well as the use of ground equipment to maintain appropriate conditions in the cargo hold during layovers.
   “This proposal replaces a June 1999 proposed rule, which was withdrawn,” the USDA agency said. “This proposal does not address marine mammals due to their unique requirements for care and handling.”
   For more information about the proposed rule, access online: a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/01jan20081800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/E7-25530.htm.