Animal Health Week: Identification keeps animals safe

OTTAWA, October 4, 2010 - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) want to remind producers that their efforts to build Canada's livestock traceability systems are keeping animals safe.

This week marks the CVMA's Animal Health Week and this year's theme, "Let's See Your ID," promotes animal identification—a key component of Canada's strategy to protect its animal resource base.

"In an emergency, the quicker we can respond the less impact a disease outbreak will have on the economy, environment and on Canadians," said Dr. Brian Evans, Chief Food Safety Officer and Chief Veterinary Officer of Canada. "Traceability systems allow animal health authorities to conduct rapid and thorough investigations in response to outbreaks."

Producers can practise animal identification by participating in traceability systems and by using proper ear tags and other identification means. In addition, tattoos, brands and paper-based logbooks and record keeping remain important and effective tools to identify animals.

"Proper animal identification allows veterinarians to easily identify infected animals and quickly address cases of disease," said Dr. Doug Roberts, president of the CVMA. "In turn, this minimizes risks for other animals, producers and the public."

There are existing industry-led cattle and sheep identification programs that are mandatory in all provinces. Industry and governments are working together to develop additional programs.

Animal Health Week is an annual public awareness campaign that runs from October 3-9, 2010 to promote animal health, veterinary medicine and responsible animal ownership across Canada.

For additional information:

• Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)
• Livestock Traceability
• Traceability in Canada

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Media Relations: 613-773-6600

Kristin McEvoy, Manager, Communications & Student Program
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), 613-236-1162, ext. 128