Submission into the draft Rabies Virus Risk Review

The AVA acknowledges the thorough analysis that has gone into producing the draft Review of rabies virus risk in imported dogs, cats and canine semen from approved countries (the Report), which appears to draw reasonable conclusions.

The proposal to extend post export quarantine (PEQ) from 10 to 30 days for group 3 approved countries is the most controversial of the proposed changes. However we acknowledge that it is a precautionary measure based on the experience in other countries, that where breakdown in quarantine measures has occurred, most cases show clinical signs within 30 days. We also acknowledge that the impetus for the change is the growing evidence of increased risk posed by fraudulent certification and documentation arising from an increase in international commercial breeding and trade.

There are benefits but also disadvantages of extending PEQ. The benefit is clearly the reduced risk of rabies entry to Australia, and given its potential devastating impact on the animal and human population, this is a strong argument. The disadvantages of the extended PEQ include the animal welfare imposts on the individual animals that are detained (including anxiety and behavioural change due to prolonged confinement and separation from their owners) as well as owner distress and economic costs.

Read the full submission here.