Canada cancels import of puppies from Ukraine after multiple deaths found in shipment to Toronto

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced that they will no longer be issuing import permits for puppies under 8 months old from the Ukraine following a tragic discovery in a shipment to Toronto.

On June 13, a shipment of puppies arrived at Pearson Airport. There were about 500 French Bulldog puppies on board, and 38 of them were deceased.

According to CBC, the CFIA said that dozens of other puppies were found seriously ill due to dehydration.

The CFIA launched an investigation into the incident, which has resulted in the cancellation of puppy imports from Ukraine.

“The CFIA's decision is based on investigation findings of possible failures to comply with import requirements, including animal welfare concerns,” said the CFIA.

“These actions will remain in effect until the CFIA is satisfied that import conditions and international transport standards are in place and that animals will travel safely in the future.”

The CFIA is responsible for regulating the importation of animals, including dogs, into Canada in order to “prevent the introduction and spread of diseases that could negatively impact the health of both animals and humans.”

“In general, all dogs imported into Canada must be healthy and fit to travel with no visible signs of illness when leaving their country of origin,” the CFIA explained.

That includes having the necessary vaccines and that they be accompanied by the necessary export documentation, which are dependent on their age and the purpose of import.