CDC stops the importation of dogs from 100 + countries with high risk of rabies

Conrad at spcaLA

Kudos to CDC! Commencing on July 14th, CDC is suspending the importation of dogs from countries with high risk of rabies until further notice, whether or not the reason is for-profit, "rescue" or a personal pet. See the details and list of countries here.

It is not a new story. Planes full of French Bulldog puppies from Ukraine landed in LAX and Toronto, a plane of French Bulldog puppies from Jordan landed in Chicago, and just last week - Yorkie puppies from Ukraine landed at LAX. Again, spcaLA responds to assist these babies.

 What is always true is that these puppies will not be healthy nor will their age, breed and medical record match their entry paper work. What is also true is whether the motive for this is profit, or a misguided attempt by those proclaiming themselves as "rescuers", the puppies will suffer, and will often spread diseases, (e.g. rabies, canine influenza, heartworm) to local dogs and in the case of rabies - to people as well. 

The bottom line is that whether or not intentions are good or bad, the dogs always lose.

Look at Conrad, a Yorkie who landed at LAX on June 8th and ultimately turned over to spcaLA by CDC. He presented with several maladies including neurological symptoms. He is estimated to be between 5-6 weeks old and under 2 pounds. (NOT the 20 weeks listed on his paperwork and absolutely NOT vaccinated against rabies,) He further spent a week in the hospital and is now under our care. Conrad is still fighting for his life.

Would you send a sick 6 week old puppy, unvaccinated, unweaned, seizing and unable to eat halfway around the world in a crate/carrier? This is the part people don't see when they click on a site and order such a designer dog. 

spcaLA participates in a multi-agency task force to deal with these issues. But no amount of enforcement can stop this global puppy enterprise. So for now, CDC is taking action. Effective July 14th the importation of dogs from 100+ countries with high risk of rabies will go into effect until further notice.

Please stop creating a demand for these dogs and adopt dogs already here. 

Enough! Please!

P.S. Strong leadership, collaboration, and swift action on the parts of the CDC, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, and spcaLA afforded Conrad a second chance at life, rather than his having to be sent back to Ukraine or euthanized. However, the little pup has a long road to go. He is currently under medical supervision, and it could be at least two months before Conrad is available for adoption. To donate to his care and that of other spcaLA shelter pets, visit spcaLA.com.