Pet Advocacy Network Applauds Passage of Healthy Dog Importation Act by House of Representatives

Measure to Protect Canine Welfare Included in House Farm Bill

Washington, DC – Today the Pet Advocacy Network applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Healthy Dog Importation Act as part of the Farm Bill. The House passed the Farm Bill on Thursday by a 224-200 vote. 

The Healthy Dog Importation Act empowers the USDA with additional tools to monitor the health of dogs imported into the United States of America to protect both human and animal health by receiving proof of vaccination, parasite treatment, and negative test results from an accredited veterinarian before a dog’s transportation into the US. More than 1 million dogs are imported into the United States every year.

“We are pleased to see this critical piece of legislation advance through the House,” commented Sandy Moore, CEO of the Pet Advocacy Network. “The Healthy Dog Importation Act will close the loopholes that increase the risk of deadly zoonotic diseases coming into our country, reducing the risk of harm to both humans and animals alike.” 

The Healthy Dog Importation Act has also been endorsed by the National Animal Interest Alliance, American Kennel Club, and American Veterinary Medical Association. As a standalone bill, its sponsors included Rep. Don David (D-NC), Rep. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN). 

The Senate is expected to take up writing its version of the Farm Bill in the near future. Pet Advocacy Network and its partners will be advocating for its inclusion in the Senate version.