All those involved in transporting animals, directly or indirectly, have the responsibility to assess animals for fitness, then select, prepare, and load only animals which are fit for the intended journey. On February 20, 2020, amendments to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)’s Health of Animals Regulations, Part XII: Transportation of Animals came into effect. The amendments improve the well-being of animals during the entire transportation process and are the result of many years of consultation with key stakeholders. Notable changes to the regulations include:

• record-keeping requirements, including transfer of care documents,
• assessment of compromised and unfit animals,
• establishing contingency plans, and
• new time frames during which animals are being transported without feed, water, and rest.

To allow the industry to transition and adapt to the changes, the CFIA implemented a two-year transition period that focused on education, awareness, and compliance promotion. As of February 20, 2022, the transition period ends, and enforcement of the rules comes into effect. The degree of enforcement is proportional to the animal welfare situation, and the seriousness of the non-compliance. Enforcement actions can include verbal or written notices and monetary or non-monetary penalties.

OFA is committed to the continuous improvement in animal care and handling practices, and increasing animal welfare. If you are involved in activities related to the loading, transport, or unloading of animals, ensure you are familiar with and follow the federal transport of animals regulations.

For additional information, please visit the following links:

• Health of Animals Regulations, Part XII Humane Transportation
• Health of Animals Regulations, Part XII Humane Transportation, Interpretive Guidance
• CFIA Then-Now Factsheet
• CFIA Factsheet – Transporting Compromised and Unfit Animals
• CFIA Brochure – Livestock Transport (Are Your Animals Fit for the Trip?)