(submitted photo/CFIA)

By Alice McFarlane

Swine Fever

Canadian detector dogs sniff out swine fever

Mar 15, 2019 | 10:48 AM

This isn’t your run of the mill mutt. Detector dogs are highly trained to use their senses to identify the presence of substances like explosives, illegal drugs and even illegally imported meat.

Meat products from countries affected by African swine fever (ASF) present one of the greatest risks for introducing the animal disease to Canada. Detector dogs are Canada’s best available method to intercept meat products making them the most effective tool in protecting Canada’s swine population from ASF as well as other animal diseases.

The federal government announced $31 million in funding to add 24 detector dog teams over five years, bringing the total number to 39 food, plant, and animal detector dog service teams.

Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Ralph Goodale said ASF poses no risk to human health, but it could disrupt Canada’s pork industry.

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“Foreign animal diseases pose a serious threat to Canadian industry,” Goodale said. “While there has never been a case of African swine fever in Canada, the Canada Border Service Agency recognizes the risks posed by travellers and commercial imports, and has taken steps to keep our country safe. Adding additional trained detector dogs will further strengthen their capacity in the years ahead.”

ASF is a serious viral disease that can cause fever, internal bleeding and high death rates in pigs. It is highly contagious and can spread rapidly through both direct and indirect contact with infected pigs or pig products. ASF only affects members of the pig family. There is no treatment or vaccine.

ASF virus is not considered a food safety risk.

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alice.mcfarlane@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @AliceMcF