Animal Diseases Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 November 2013

Wednesday, 13 November 2013

Questions (142)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

142. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the death of a dog from the Longford pound due to go to a new home in the UK which was vaccinated for rabies and which, according to the vet, died as a result of a complication from the rabies vaccine; if he will clarify the need for the introduction of a rabies vaccination process for animals being exported to the UK when the UK has been rabies free since 1902; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48457/13]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

I am not aware of this particular case referred to by the Deputy which would be a matter between the private veterinary surgeon and the client. On a general note, the use of rabies vaccine is widespread throughout the world and such vaccines are considered to be safe. As with all medicines any supposed negative effects arising from their use should be reported to the manufacturer.

EU law relating to the protection of citizens from rabies provides that dogs, cats and ferrets moving between EU Member States must be accompanied by EU Pet Passports certifying microchip identification and rabies vaccination, with some additional requirements for commercial exports. This system allows dog owners to bring their pets into and out of Ireland without a compulsory and lengthy quarantine. These requirements also apply to trade between Ireland and the UK.

In view of this, any person travelling with dogs to Britain is being advised by my Department to ensure that they are compliant with EU law.