In a recent development affecting equine exporters, the European Union has introduced significant changes to the Export Health Certificate (EHC) for horses. The amendments, focusing on the Official Veterinary (OV) attestation, have potential implications for the equine export process.
Key Changes: The new wording requires Official Veterinarians completing the EHC to attest that horses have been “kept in establishments under official veterinary supervision,” replacing the previous requirement of “veterinary supervision.” This subtle but crucial change means that only an OV can provide the necessary supervision.
Potential Challenges: This amendment may create complications in scenarios where the certifying OV is not from the practice where the horse was registered 30 days prior to export. This could affect horses sold from sales rings or those in pre-export holding yards. The issue may be further complicated for practices without OV-qualified staff.
Exceptions and Solutions:
- The changes do not impact EHCs for return legs of EU to UK to EU temporary movements.
- Defra has introduced a new declaration for the “home OV vet” to sign and stamp, providing necessary assurances to the certifying OV.
- This declaration can be signed by any OV, even those with just the foundation level Essential Skills qualification.
Industry Response: The equine export industry is adapting to these changes. Most affected practices are expected to already have qualified vets to handle the new requirements. Those without can quickly obtain the necessary qualifications.
For detailed guidance, exporters are advised to refer to the updated Notes for Guidance for EHC 8431, 8433, and 8434.
As the industry adjusts to these new regulations, exporters are encouraged to stay informed and ensure compliance to maintain smooth equine export operations.
You can learn more about this on the BEVA website – link.
