There have been reports that the State of Nevada intends to make drastic reductions to the supporting animal health staff at the Office of the State Veterinarian due to fiscal constraints.
In the U.S. each state has a State Veterinarian(s) who is hired by the state government to oversee animal health matters within the state. The Office of the State Veterinarian duties include monitoring herds and flocks of animals for disease, regulating the movement of animals within and across state lines, animal welfare, and in some states, meat inspection.
The new USDA Animal Disease Traceability Framework program, announced in February requires State-certified veterinarians verify that animals are free of disease and meet State-specific animal health requirements. In general, States require Certificates of Veterinary Inspection and import permits for animals destined for feeding or breeding purposes. The State Veterinarian will be handling these Certificates of Veterinary Inspection.
How will these cutbacks effect the monitoring of disease, the movement of animals and animal welfare?
In Canada the Office of the Chief Provincial Veterinarian (OCPV) advocates the use of current scientific principles and information in the development of animal health legislation and disease control programs. The OCPV liaises with international, federal and other provincial governments, as well as industry on food animal health issues.
We must monitor this movement in the U.S.. If this happens in Nevada: will it happen in other states and will the precedent then carry forward to Canadian provinces? Would this precedent create disease transmission risks that will threaten animal agriculture across North America?
Following is a letter that the National Association of State Veterinarian is sending to the ag commissioner and governor:
I am writing to express concern regarding reports that the State of Nevada intends to eliminate the position of State Veterinarian and make drastic reductions to the supporting animal health staff.
Our members are very aware of the fiscal constraints being experienced by Nevada. Most members are experiencing a similar budgetary situation in their states.
The National Assembly represents the animal health officials of the 50 states. Our members have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with the State of Nevada for decades. This relationship includes high confidence in the quality and effectiveness of animal health regulatory programs in the Nevada Department of Agriculture.
Our members believe eliminating this vital position and much of the supporting animal health infrastructure may result in a negative impact on the livestock industries, animal health, animal welfare, public health and food safety with potential adverse impacts on other states. The State Veterinarian and veterinary diagnostic infrastructure is an essential part of state animal health regulatory programs.
Additionally, the State Veterinarian is a key member of a state homeland security capability, particularly through Emergency Support Function 11- Agriculture and Natural Resources.
There are several specific concerns our members have raised. We respectfully request a response to clarify these concerns. I will be happy to share your response with our membership.Who will serve as the Chief Animal Health Officer of Nevada? Our members will need to know with whom to communicate with concerning animal health regulatory matters. Will livestock leaving Nevada receive the proper testing, vaccinations and documentation necessary to meet interstate animal movement requirements under the planned reductions? Will the impending reductions in the Animal Health Program have a significant adverse impact on the ability of Nevada to detect, diagnose, respond to and control animal diseases in Nevada that have the potential to spread to other States?
Thank you for your consideration in this matter. The National Assembly strongly urges the State of Nevada preserve the critical position of State Veterinarian and the supporting animal health program infrastructure.
The Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada will be monitoring the progress of this situation. Please contact us by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone 403.526.1070 if you have questions or comments.