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Bill seeks shorter quarantine time for pets entering CNMI
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Posted on Mar 20 2009
Rep. Rosemond Santos has introduced legislation that would allow for shorter periods of quarantine for pets entering the CNMI.
Under House Bill 16-233, pets that have received a properly implanted microchip and a titer against rabies may spend less than the required 120 days in quarantine. If 120 or more days have passed since the blood has arrived at the laboratory, and if all other requirements have been met, the animal must complete the CNMI quarantine program of five days or less and a physical examination by a veterinarian approved by the Chief of Animal and Health Industry.
The program requires some pre-approval requirements, however, including the proper vaccinations, microchip and blood test results, among other things.
The legislation notes that a pet passport scheme was created in the United Kingdom so pets would not need to undergo the usual six-month quarantine period to protect against rabies.
“Through this scheme, pets are able to travel freely and easily between member countries of the European Union and certain non-European Union countries which have qualified under the scheme, provided that they satisfy the health and safety requirements, particularly with regards to rabies vaccinations and follow the applicable procedure,” the bill stated.
Hawaii and Guam, like the CNMI are rabies-free, and have developed similar programs to make traveling with pets easier by establishing procedures for shorter periods of quarantine, according to the legislation.
