Jerry Redding (202)720-6959
jerry.redding@usda.gov
USDA SEEKS COMMENT ON DRAFT EXOTIC ANIMAL HANDLING
POLICY
WASHINGTON, Feb. 17, 2000--The U.S. Department of Agriculture seeks comments on a new draft policy regarding the training and handling of potentially dangerous animals.
"We believe this draft policy addresses the concerns of the industry and the public," said Michael V. Dunn, under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs. "It reflects accepted professional standards for the safe and humane training and handling of bears, elephants, lions, and other potentially dangerous animals."
The draft policy is divided into three sections:
personnel, training and handling techniques and procedures, and contingency plans. It describes what levels of knowledge and experience handlers, trainers, and other personnel should have, what handling techniques and procedures are unacceptable or inadvisable under the regulations, and guidance on preparing contingency plans in the event that an animal becomes aggressive.
This notice and the draft policy is scheduled for publication in the Feb. 18 Federal Register. APHIS documents published in the Federal Register, and related information, including the names of organizations and individuals who have commented on APHIS rules, are available on the Internet at
Consideration will be given to comments received on or before April 18. To comment on the draft policy, send an original and three copies of comments to Docket No. 97-001-4, Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS, USDA, Suite 3C03, 4700 River Road Unit 118, Riverdale, Md. 20737-1238.
The draft policy and comments received are available for public review at USDA, Room 1141 South Building, 14th Street and Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C., between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. Persons wishing access to this room are requested to call in advance at (202) 690-2817.
For more information on the draft policy contact Barbara Kohn, senior staff veterinarian, AC, APHIS, 4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, Md. 20737, (301) 734-7833.
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