The US Department of Agriculture has set up rules and regulations regarding the safety of pets and farm animals. In accordance with USDA’s regulations, animal inspection is carried out to ensure the safety of pets during international travel. Inspection is also carried out on farms and agricultural lands to ensure that the equipment and facilities are in compliance with the regulations of USDA.
Health Inspection
A health certificate is necessary when an animal has to be shipped internationally or pets have to travel with their owners. The animal health certificate is issued after a USDA-accredited vet inspects the pet and completes the necessary paperwork. Health inspection is necessary for the safety of a pet as well as other animals on a flight. The timing of the health inspection, however, must be in accordance with the requirements of the airlines.
It is up to the pet owners to find USDA-accredited vets and get the paperwork completed within the required timeframe. If animals are being shipped by a pet store or laboratory, then they will be responsible for getting the paperwork completed on time.
Field Inspection
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service also ensures the safety of farm animals by inspecting field sites and evaluating potential noncompliance incidents. The agency also carries out animal inspection if they receive complaints from the public. Farms can also self-report noncompliance incidents. APHIS also works to restore compliance to protect the health of farm animals. USDA has set up strict regulations for agricultural safety, which is another reason why veterinary or animal inspection is so important.
