Health requirements for admitting Asian Water Buffalo into California
A separate entry permit from the Animal Health Branch, valid for 15 days and approved prior to entry into California, is required for each shipment containing any water buffalo of any age and sex. In any case where the department suspects that a proposed movement may pose a danger to California livestock an entry permit may be refused.
What is required?
- When is a certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) required?
- Is a Brucellosis test or a Tuberculosis test required?
Additional pre-entry test procedures may be required for evaluation before considering an entry permit. Animals may be held at their destination pending inspection by department personnel. If water buffalo are found that have not met California requirements they will be required either to meet the requirements, leave the state, or go to slaughter. The entry permit number shall be recorded on all documents accompanying the shipment. No diversion from the requested destination will be allowed. A copy of the health certificate and all other entry documents shall be presented to government officials upon request. All entry documents must be kept available for examination and copying for at least two (2) years after entry. The department may levy a penalty or refuse future entry to any person who causes brucellosis infection or violates entry requirements.
CERTIFICATE OF VETERINARY INSPECTION:
- A copy of a valid Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, with individual identification, shall accompany each load or part of a shipment entering California.
BRUCELLOSIS TEST and TUBERCULOSIS (TB):
- Negative TB test(s) is required for all water buffalo within 60 days of entry.
- Negative Brucellosis test within 30 days before entry is required for all water buffalo except steers and identified spayed heifers.
For more information contact:
California Department of Food and Agriculture
Animal Health and Food Safety Services, Animal Health Branch
1220 N Street, Room A–107
Sacramento, California 95814
Livestock Movement Permit Telephone: (916) 651–6278
Fax: (916) 653–2215
or send an email to: ahbfeedback@cdfa.ca.gov