Equidae Working Group

Documents - Workshop September 2007

Issue Template - Equidae

Equidae Working Group

For the purpose of National Animal Health Strategy development, “equidae” include domestic and feral horses, mules, hinnies and donkeys, but not zebras. Equidae are used for many purpose

DEFINITION – Animal Health

The state of a living organism, species or population which can sustain biological functions to preserve its own integrity. Animal health includes animal welfare.

ISSUES related to Equidae

1. Unfair tax burden of the equine sector, compared with other livestock sectors
2. Limited availability of new and approved animal health pharmaceuticals
3. Lack of harmonization among legislations/regulations/policies of various governments
4. Time delay in recognizing emerging disease and subsequent placing on reportable/notifiable disease lists managed by governments
5. Lack of emergency plans for equine sector
6. Risks stemming from close contact between equine species and humans
7. Transportation of animals can lead to animal welfare issues
8. Lack of agreement on the acceptability of human consumption of horse meat
9. Land management decisions have a negative impact on the equine sector
10. Lack of tools and guidelines to horse owners regarding humane euthanasia and disposal of carcasses
11. Lack of clarity on the rights, roles and responsibilities of horse owners versus horse custodians

PROPOSED NAHS OUTCOMES

1. Protect Canadians from animal-related health risks.
2. Strengthen domestic and international confidence in the integrity of Canada's animal health, environmental protection and food safety systems.
3. Minimize the economic, social and environmental consequences of animal diseases.
4. Sustain the health of animal populations by maintaining their viability and genetic diversity.
5. Reduce animals’ exposure to disease.
6. Protect ecosystem health through prudent animal health and management practices.
7. Develop an integrated governance system to mitigate animal health risks.