NEWS RELEASE
Date: 4 October 2008
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Animal Health investigates quarantine kennel
Animal Health is currently investigating a privately-owned quarantine kennel in Kent after an inspection found discrepancies relating to paperwork at the premises.
Animal Health has found discrepancies relating to the administrative audit trail of animals entering and leaving the quarantine premises and their rabies vaccination status.
As a precautionary measure while the investigation takes place, Animal Health has ordered that no more animals are to enter quarantine at the kennel in question. Animal Health is tracing animals to ensure that no animals have left the quarantine facility prematurely. The number of animals that need to be traced is estimated to be fewer than 20.
There are no signs of any notifiable exotic diseases in animals at the premises. While all animals currently at the quarantine kennel appear to be in good health, any animals with incomplete rabies vaccination records will be vaccinated as a precaution.
The quarantine facility was last inspected three months ago, as part of Animal Health’s regular programme of inspections.
Chief Veterinary Officer Nigel Gibbens said:
“We are investigating a case of poor administration at a quarantine premises. However, there is no suggestion that animals that are or have been in the quarantine have shown signs of rabies.
Animal Health will contact the owners of animals to check that they have not left the facility prematurely and to ensure that they do not pose a disease risk.”
Any other pet owner that has any concerns about their animals in relation to this incident should contact their vet.
End
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Page published: 4 October 2008