EUROPA

SUMMARY

The Directive lays down the animal health requirements for the trade and import in the European Union (EU) of live animals, sperm, ova and embryos which are not covered by specific Community legislation (as is already the case for cattle and swine, equidae, sheep and goats, poultry and hatching eggs, certain live ungulates, as well as for aquaculture products).

Species covered by the Directive

The Directive lays down the animal health requirements applicable to trade in zoo animals, ungulates and birds which are not covered by other specific Directives, camelidae, bees, lagomorphs, minks, foxes, etc., as well as the trade in pet animals such as cats, dogs and ferrets. In order to be the subject of trade, ferrets, cats and dogs must meet the conditions provided for in Regulation (EC) No 998/2003 on the non-commercial movement of pet animals. For the latter category of animals, Finland, Ireland, Malta, the United Kingdom and Finland require additional guarantees. They may, for example, in certain cases, keep their national rules on quarantine for animals susceptible to rabies.

The Directive also lays down the animal health requirements applicable to trade in semen, ova and embryos of certain animals like equidae, sheep and goats.

Controls and penalties

Checks are carried out in accordance with the provisions of Council Directive 90/425/EEC applicable to intra-Community trade in live animals and their sperm, ova and embryos.

The Member States must take administrative or penal measures to penalize infringements of the Directive.

Live animals and their sperm, ova and embryos covered by this Directive and coming from third countries are subject to the minimum requirements laid down in Directive 97/78/EEC CEE concerning veterinary checks applicable to products from third countries.

Authorised imports

Imports from third countries are authorized provided they offer guarantees equivalent to those required in intra-Community trade. Conditions concerning the veterinary certificate, checks and transport are laid down, and animals must be quarantined prior to importation.