Ss Jul 2014

Importation of Animals and Poultry, Animal and Poultry Products, Certain
Animal Embryos, and Zoological Animals
0579-0040
April 2014
Terms of Clearance: APHIS has made several forms electronic so users can completel and submit
them electronically. Several of the forms must accompany the animals so those forms can now be
completed electronically and printed to accompany the animals.
Introduction
APHIS is merging 0579-0324, Importation of Equines into the United States, into this package and
discontinuing it . The activities included in 0579-0324 are covered in 0040 and do not need to be
accounted for in a separate collection.

A. Justification

1. Explain the circumstances that make the collection of information necessary. Identify
any legal or administrative requirements that necessitate the collection. Attach a copy of
the appropriate section of each statute and regulation mandating or authorizing the
collection of information.
The Animal Health Protection Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8301–8317) is the primary Federal law
governing the protection of animal health. The law gives the Secretary of Agriculture broad
authority to detect, control, or eradicate pests or diseases of livestock or poultry. Disease
prevention is the most effective method for maintaining healthy animal populations in the United
States and for enhancing the ability to compete in the world market of animal and animal product
trade.
APHIS’ Veterinary Services (VS) unit is responsible for, among other things, preventing the
introduction of foreign or certain other communicable animal diseases into the United States; and
for rapidly identifying, containing, eradicating, or otherwise mitigating such diseases when
feasible. In connection with this mission, APHIS collects information from individuals who
import animals or poultry, animal or poultry products, or animal germplasm (semen and
embryos, including eggs for hatching) into the United States.
This information includes, but is not limited to, data such as the names of the exporter and
importer of the animal commodities; the origins of the animals or animal products to be
imported; the health status of the animals or the processing methods used to produce animal
products to be imported; the destination of delivery in the United States; and whether the animals
or animal products were temporarily offloaded in another country during transit to the United
States. APHIS needs this information to help ensure that these imports do not introduce foreign
animal diseases into the United States.
1

APHIS uses a variety of information collection procedures and forms including health
certificates, import permits, specimen submission forms, inspection reports, cooperative and trust
fund agreements, and certification statements.
APHIS is asking OMB to approve, for an additional 3 years, the information collection activities
associated with its efforts to safeguard the health of the U.S. livestock and poultry populations.

2. Indicate how, by whom, how frequently, and for what purpose the information is to be
used. Except for a new collection, indicate the actual use the agency has made of the
information received from the current collection.
90-day Written Bird Possession Statement - Canada
The owner of a pet bird, before bringing the bird into the United States from Canada, must state
in writing that the bird has been in his or her possession for a minimum of 90 days before the
date of importation, and that during this time, the bird did not come into contact with any poultry
or other birds. This helps ensure that pet birds brought in from Canada are healthy and do not
pose a disease risk to the poultry population of the United States.
Recordkeeping – Identification Marks on Imported Animals
The foreign producer (owner or operator of farms as well as individuals and households) is
responsible for providing and keeping any required identification records. Officials in exporting
countries who certify these records (when required under APHIS’ regulations to do so in an
export certificate) may also be responsible for verifying or for otherwise keeping records of
animal identifications provided to APHIS. The foreign government determines the length of time
to maintain such records.
APHIS uses the types of identification it collects to identify country of origin, correlate testing
and certification statements required for import, and to trace animals.
Agreement of Pet Bird Owner (VS 17-8)
When bird owners return to the United States from specified countries with a U.S.-origin bird
with the original health certificate, APHIS requires them to agree, in writing, that they will keep
the bird in their homes for 30 days (a home quarantine, which is supervised by APHIS
personnel). This helps ensure that the bird, if it is carrying a disease acquired in a foreign
country, will not pose a disease threat to the U.S. poultry population.
U.S. Permit to Transit Poultry, Hatching Eggs, or Birds (VS 17-135A)
When poultry, hatching eggs, or birds are transiting Anchorage, Alaska, the importer must apply
for a transit permit. This is required so APHIS can have a veterinarian on hand in Anchorage to
supervise the transit. Without this requirement, APHIS would have no way of knowing when
foreign poultry was transiting Alaska. This would compromise APHIS’ ability to prevent foreign
poultry diseases from entering the United States.
2

Application and Space Reservation Request for Ratites and Ratite Hatching Eggs and Site
Inspection (VS 17-128)
If an importer wishes to reserve quarantine space to import ratites or ratite eggs into the United
States or wishes to ask APHIS to inspect a ratite farm in a foreign country, APHIS requires the
importer to submit this application. (The foreign health certificate is printed on the reverse side
of this form.) This enables APHIS to make arrangements to conduct quarantines and farm
inspections. Not conducting these activities would compromise APHIS’ ability to prevent foreign
poultry diseases from entering the United States.
Daily Register and Recordkeeping for Owner or Manager for Ratites and Hatching Eggs
APHIS requires the operator of a foreign ratite farm to record and maintain records of the
inventory of ratite eggs and ratites and their identification on the farm so APHIS knows exactly
how many ratites and eggs are on the farm. The national veterinary service of the region of
export uses this information to maintain a registry of premises. The foreign government
determines the length of time to maintain the records. This information helps ensure that ratites
in the foreign country have not been exposed to ratites of a different health status before export
to the United States.
Declaration of Importation of Animals, Animal Semen, Embryos, Birds, Poultry, and Eggs
for Hatching (VS 17-29)
By filling out this form, which is collected by (or provided by APHIS to) U.S. Customs officials,
importers declare what they are importing into the United States; namely, animals or animal
germplasm (including eggs for hatching). This alerts APHIS that certain animals or germplasm
will be entering the United States and helps APHIS prevent the entry of foreign animal diseases.
Owner or Manager and Country of Export Quarterly Submission of Registers
APHIS requires operators of a foreign ratite farm (individuals or households) to submit their
daily registers to the appropriate government office in that country, which then submits the
registers to APHIS. This provides APHIS with information about the inventory of the farm. If
these registers were not submitted to APHIS, APHIS would have no way of knowing if ratites or
ratite eggs were being smuggled onto the farm.
Recordkeeping - National Exporting Country Registers and Maintenance of Current
Production Records, Additions to Such Premises, and Ceiling Limitations
APHIS requires foreign veterinary officials to receive and maintain the registers from the
operators of ratite farms. This assures APHIS that each farm is keeping accurate records
concerning its inventory and the identification of its ratites (by matching identification numbers).
This also gives APHIS information concerning the facility’s adherence to export ceiling
limitation requirements and whether any additions to the facility are planned. This information
helps ensure ratites in the foreign country have not been exposed to ratites of a different health
status before export to the United States.

3

Request for Hearing for Withdrawal of an Import Permit for Ratites or Ratite Hatching
Eggs
If APHIS withdraws a permit to import ratites or ratite hatching eggs because of disease
concerns or for other reasons, the importer has the right to request a hearing in writing to
determine just cause for the permit’s withdrawal. This procedure allows the importer to
challenge the APHIS decision to withdraw the permit.
Random Inspections of Ratite Farms per Breeding Season of Premises for Required
Identification and Recording on Quarterly Report of Registers
APHIS requires full-time salaried veterinary officers of the national government to inspect ratite
farms quarterly to see if the farms meet APHIS recordkeeping and identification guidelines.
These veterinarians record whether all ratites and hatching eggs are properly identified. This
process ensures APHIS that farms are keeping accurate inventory records and that only ratites or
ratite eggs of known health status reside at the exporting facility.
Cooperative Agreement and Trust Fund for Privately Owned Bird or Poultry Quarantine
Facilities (includes providing a list of current employees to port veterinarian, signed
statement from each designated employee, written instructions to monitoring agency,
telephone numbers of cooperators, written request for accounting of funds, and written
termination)
An operator seeking APHIS approval to establish or maintain a privately owned bird or poultry
quarantine facility completes this documentation and sends it to APHIS. Operators of currentlyapproved facilities that undergo a change in location or ownership must also submit this
information to APHIS. This allows APHIS to review the conditions under which the facility was
approved, and to adjust its records or re-inspect the facility if necessary. This documentation
helps APHIS monitor these facilities and prevent the introduction of poultry diseases into the
United States.
Daily Log and Recordkeeping for Identification Record for Birds or Poultry (VS 17-12)
APHIS requires the operator of a privately owned bird or poultry quarantine facility keep this
daily log (or an alternative record, as approved by the APHIS personnel monitoring the facility)
and identification record for 12 months. This keeps APHIS informed of which birds are entering
the facility. Only birds listed on a specific import permit (or permits) issued by APHIS can enter
these facilities during an applicable period of quarantine. The log and identification record helps
APHIS protect the U.S. poultry population from foreign disease.
Additional Requirements for the Quarantine of Birds or Poultry (including some hatching
eggs)
APHIS reserves the right to impose additional requirements concerning the quarantining of birds
or poultry (including hatching eggs from certain regions of the world) if APHIS determines it is
necessary to prevent the escape of poultry disease agents from quarantine facilities. Imposing
such requirements (such as additional length of quarantine, testing, cleaning/disinfection or
sanitation requirements) may require the facility operator to sign or submit various kinds of
documents in connection with the additional requirements.
4

Application for Import or In-Transit Permit (for Live Animals, Animal Semen, Animal
Embryos, Birds, Poultry, or Hatching Eggs) (VS Form 17-129)
Anyone required by APHIS to have an import or in-transit permit must submit a VS 17-129,
“Application for Import or In-Transit Permit (Animals, Animal Semen, Animal Embryos, Birds,
Poultry, and Hatching Eggs),” to APHIS. The applicant must describe the type, number, and
identification of the animals to be exported. The applicant must also list the origin, intended date
and location of arrival, routes of travel, and destination of the animals. APHIS will use the
permit applications to carefully evaluate each import request.
Request Space at USDA-Operated Quarantine Facilities
Before APHIS can quarantine animals at a USDA-operated quarantine facility, the importer
reserves space at the facility. In some cases, this may be done through online reservations or by
directly contacting the USDA quarantine facility; or APHIS may reserve space as part of an
overall permit process (including submission of the VS 17-129). Types of animals that are or
may be required to be quarantined include horses, ruminants, swine, wild ruminants and wild
swine intended for exhibition in a zoological park, birds, and poultry.
Export Health Certificates
Foreign veterinary authorities complete any export health certificates required by APHIS as
written proof that competent veterinary authorities have examined or tested the animals, eggs, or
germplasm and that the commodities meet APHIS’ import requirements. An affidavit or
certificate from the owner or importer stating animals have been in the country for 60 days
before shipment may be included as part of the foreign health certificate. APHIS requires export
health certificates to ensure that animals and animal products required by APHIS’ regulations to
be accompanied by a health or other export certificate, as well as any animals or animal products
imported under any special conditions (permit or protocol), are of an acceptable health status.
Letter of Credit, Cashier’s Check, Certified Check, or Money Order
To reserve and use space at USDA-operated quarantine facilities, the importer or agent gives a
financial instrument (letter of credit, cashier’s check, certified check, or money order) to APHIS
in person, through the mail, or by courier.
Written Notice of Cancellation from Importer
If an importer reserves space at a quarantine facility and then decides to cancel the reservation,
APHIS needs to know of the change to make the space available for someone else. Receiving
this written notice, a copy of which may also be submitted by email, enables APHIS to
effectively manage the use of space at the quarantine facilities.
Daily Record of Horse’s Activities
The trainer or horse owner in an exporting country APHIS considers affected with contagious
equine metritis (CEM) must keep a daily record of the horse’s activities and submit it to a
USDA-approved recordkeeping association. This serves as a record that the horse has not been
on breeding premises (i.e., used for breeding purposes) and has been involved only in training
activities. If the animal is used for breeding purposes in a CEM-affected country before entering
5

the United States, it may contract CEM and present a disease threat to the U.S. equine
population. A salaried veterinary officer of the national government of the region of origin must
verify this information on the import health certificate.
Recordkeeping - Horses for Association and Trainer
A USDA-approved recordkeeping association in an exporting country maintains the daily record
of a horse’s activities. This record provides that the animal was not used for breeding purposes in
other countries. If the animal is used for breeding purposes before entering the United States, it
may contract CEM and present a disease threat to the U.S. equine population. A salaried
veterinary officer of the national government of the region of origin is required to verify this
information on the import health certificate.
Written Request to Change Horse’s Itinerary or Method of Transport
A horse of foreign origin that enters the United States must have a definite itinerary and undergo
close monitoring if APHIS-required testing for CEM has not been completed. If the horse’s
itinerary needs to be changed, the owner or manager of the horse submits a written request to
change the itinerary. APHIS needs to know the precise itinerary under which a horse will travel
before arriving in the United States to evaluate potential disease risk to U.S. horses.
Appeal or Hearing of Import Permit Withdrawal
If APHIS cancels a permit to import a horse, the importer, owner, or agent can appeal the
decision in writing. This appeal process gives such persons a way to challenge the decision to
cancel the permit.
Written Agreement with State for CEM (Monitoring by State)
States perform CEM quarantines under APHIS guidance designed to prevent outbreaks and
spread of CEM. State veterinary authorities fill out this agreement, which serves as the State’s
obligation to abide by APHIS guidelines when quarantining horses for CEM.
Opportunity to Present View on Suspension
If APHIS opts to suspend a State’s approval to receive horses for CEM quarantine, the State
veterinary authorities can appeal the suspension in writing. A copy of the appeal may also be
submitted by email. This appeal process gives States a way to challenge the APHIS decision.
Zoological Park Inspection Report (VS 17-65A)
APHIS inspects individual USDA-approved zoos semiannually to ensure they are maintaining
specific standards relative to the housing and care of imported swine and ruminants that may be
held at the facility as an entry or post-entry condition. APHIS requires the zoo operator to use an
APHIS-accredited veterinarian to conduct this monitoring. This veterinarian must make periodic
inspections of the swine or ruminants to ascertain their health status, and must alert APHIS, in
writing (a copy of which may also be submitted by email), of any suspected illness in the
animals, or of their death. APHIS personnel are at the zoo perhaps twice a year; an onsite
veterinarian continuously monitors the animals and their health status.
6

Agreement for the Importation, Quarantine, and Exhibition of Certain Wild Ruminants
and Wild Swine (VS 17-65B)
Zoo authorities who import wild ruminants and swine complete this agreement, which obligates
them to abide by APHIS guidelines when handling these animals. This helps ensure that these
animals do not pose a disease risk to the ruminant and swine populations of the United States.
Report of Zoo Animals with Suspected Cases of Contagious or Communicable Diseases
(VS 17-65C)
If a zoo animal is suspected of disease or dies, zoo authorities notify APHIS so that APHIS can
determine whether the animal has or had a condition that could threaten U.S. livestock, equine,
or poultry, or could threaten U.S. humans. If zoo authorities did not alert APHIS via this form,
APHIS’ ability to protect the United States from disease incursion could be compromised.
Agreement for Transfer of Certain Wild Animals (VS 17-65D)
Zoo authorities complete this form when they transfer an animal imported under any applicable
entry or post-entry conditions required by APHIS to another location. APHIS needs to know
about such transfers, since some zoo animals may represent a possible long-term disease threat to
the U.S. animal population.
Application for Approval of Quarantine or Holding Facility (Letter)
Occasionally foreign animals transiting the United States to a third country must be temporarily
offloaded (from a plane or truck) into a holding facility before they reach their final destination.
Certain animals entering the United States may also be eligible to be quarantined at a privatelyowned quarantine facility. In either case, the transporter must request, in writing, that APHIS
approve the facility to be used to temporarily house or quarantine these animals. APHIS requires
this application for approval to know when, where, or for how long these animals are being
housed and to determine how much of a disease risk they present to the United States.
Opportunity for Hearing to Present Views on Facility Withdrawal and Written
Withdrawal by Facility Operator
If APHIS opts to withdraw approval of a facility (such as a privately owned quarantine facility),
the facility operator has the right to appeal the APHIS decision. The appeal must be in writing.
This process gives facility operators a way of challenging the APHIS decision. Facility operators
must also alert APHIS, in writing, if they intend to cease operations and voluntarily relinquish
operating approval. This allows APHIS to keep accurate records.
Trust Fund or Compliance Agreement for Privately Owned Equine Quarantine Facilities
Operators of privately owned equine quarantine facilities must sign this agreement to allow
USDA personnel to inspect and monitor horses or other equines imported to the facility, and to
pay USDA for these services. APHIS inspects and monitors the horses to ensure they are healthy
and do not pose a disease risk to the U.S. equine population. Among other things, APHIS ensures
the horses are not being bred during quarantine and possibly transmitting CEM to U.S. horses.

7

Daily Log of Privately Owned Quarantine Facility for Ruminants, Swine, and Equine
When ruminants, swine, or equines are in any quarantine required by APHIS as an entry or postentry condition, APHIS needs to ensure that only specified individuals are allowed entry into the
quarantine facility. The daily log that visitors must sign allows APHIS to enforce this. This
documentation helps APHIS maintain the integrity of the quarantine. Unauthorized visitors
entering and leaving the quarantine facility could pose a disease risk to the U.S. livestock
population.
Recordkeeping – Daily Log of Privately Owned Quarantine Facility for Ruminants, Swine,
and Equine
When ruminants, swine, or equines are in any quarantine required by APHIS as an entry or postentry condition, APHIS needs to ensure that only specified individuals are allowed into the
quarantine facility. The daily log these individuals must sign allows APHIS to enforce this. This
requirement helps APHIS maintain the integrity of the quarantine. Unauthorized visitors entering
and leaving the quarantine could pose a disease risk to the U.S. livestock population. APHIS
requires the facility operator to keep the log for 12 months after the animals leave the quarantine.
If imported animals become sick after leaving quarantine, the log would help APHIS investigate
the incident.
Application for Approval of Quarantine Facilities and Request for Transfer of Operations
to Another Facility for Birds or Poultry (VS 17-11)
If an individual wants to operate a bird or poultry quarantine facility or move an approved bird or
poultry quarantine facility to another location, the individual must submit this application to
APHIS to have the facility approved or re-approved. These facilities must meet strict biosecurity
standards. This application helps APHIS ensure bird or poultry quarantine facilities meet APHIS
standards and do not pose a disease risk to the poultry population of the United States.
Written Request for Inspection, Other Services, and Dipping (VS 17-32, Application for
Inspection and Dipping)
When importers wish to import ruminants, horses, or other animals from Mexico into the United
States, they must submit this application asking USDA personnel to inspect the animals at the
border. APHIS inspects the animals to ensure they are healthy and do not pose a disease risk to
U.S. animals. Certain types of animals from Mexico are also required to undergo a treatment for
ectoparasites at border port facilities. This application lets APHIS know when the animals are
expected so personnel will be available to inspect the animals (and treat them for ectoparasites, if
applicable). This avoids delays for the importers and helps APHIS conduct inspections or
treatments in a timely and efficient manner.
Importer or Agent Certification Free of Fever Tick (Letter)
Mexican veterinary officials submit letters to APHIS certifying cattle from Mexico (or other
animals covered under applicable parts of the APHIS regulations) destined for import into the
United States have been inspected, found free of fever and other ticks, and dipped. This helps
APHIS ensure that ruminants from Mexico are free of the different life stages of ticks and the
diseases ticks may carry before the cattle enter the United States.
8

72-Hour Prior Arrival Notice (Hedgehogs, Tenrecs, Elephants, Hippos, Rhinos, and
Tapirs)
Importers must alert an APHIS inspector at the port of entry stipulated in an APHIS permit for
their importation at least 72 hours before hedgehogs, tenrecs, elephants, hippos, rhinos, or tapirs
arrive in the United States. The importer can give 72-hour notice in writing, by telephone, or by
fax for each shipment of animals intended for import. The 72-hour notice allows APHIS time to
plan for the animals’ arrival and to arrange for inspection.
Owner Affidavit for Sheep and Goats from Scrapie Regions
When sheep or goats are imported from countries or regions known to be affected with scrapie,
the importer must supply APHIS with an affidavit when an import application is submitted,
stating that these animals originated from a flock or herd in the region of origin that participates
in a program determined by APHIS to be equivalent to the Voluntary Scrapie Flock Certification
Program; and that the flock or herd has been determined by APHIS to be at a level equivalent to
“Certified” in the Voluntary Scrapie Flock Certification Program.
Request for Recognition of the Animal Health Status of a Region
When the veterinary authorities of a foreign region wish to apply for recognition of the animal
health status of their region with regard to a disease or diseases, they must communicate this
desire to APHIS via a letter, a copy of which may be emailed. This request letter follows no
particular format and may contain as much information as the sender feels necessary.
Application for Recognition of the Animal Health Status of a Region
In addition to the request letter, the region’s veterinary authorities must submit certain
information about the region, preferably in the form of a questionnaire available on the APHIS
Web site. If APHIS receives a request letter without this information, the Agency will provide
the questionnaire to the requesting entity and indicate that the information is necessary to initiate
an evaluation. The region’s veterinary authorities must complete and return the questionnaire to
APHIS.
The questionnaire is designed to give APHIS specific information necessary to accurately
evaluate the animal health status of a region and the associated risk of opening U.S. markets to
animal commodities from that region. The questionnaire solicits information regarding the
occurrence of and surveillance for the disease under evaluation, veterinary controls and
oversight, disease history and vaccination practices, livestock demographics and traceability,
epidemiological separation from potential sources of infection, diagnostic laboratory capabilities,
and emergency preparedness and response capacity.
In many instances, the information requested already exists and must simply be entered into the
questionnaire format. However, an additional burden is incurred when the respondents must
translate information, such as official acts or regulations, into English.

9

Application for Recognition of a Region as Historically Free of a Disease
The veterinary authorities of a region may elect to apply for historically-free status, if the region
meets certain criteria specified in 9 CFR 92.2(c). The veterinary authorities submit a request
letter as described above and also information about the region, preferably in the form of a
questionnaire available on the APHIS Web site. If APHIS receives a request letter without this
information, the Agency will provide the questionnaire to the requesting entity and indicate the
information is necessary to initiate an evaluation. The region’s veterinary authorities must
complete and return the questionnaire to APHIS.
The questionnaire is designed to provide APHIS with specific information necessary to
accurately evaluate the region for historically-free status and assess the risk of opening U.S.
markets to animal commodities from that region. The questionnaire solicits information
regarding the occurrence of and surveillance for the disease under evaluation, veterinary controls
and oversight, disease history and vaccination practices, the measures in place for detection and
notification of disease occurrence, and barriers to disease introduction.
In many instances, the information requested already exists and must simply be entered into the
questionnaire format. However, an additional burden is incurred when the respondents must
translate information, such as official acts or regulations, into English.
Request for Additional Information about a Region
In some instances, APHIS may determine that the initial information package is incomplete or
that the Agency needs more information than was originally requested. If this is the case, APHIS
will ask the region to provide additional information. No form is involved in this collection
process; in many cases, the information already exists and will simply need to be sent to APHIS.
Appeal Classification of Animal Health Status
If APHIS denies a region’s request to be classified as a certain animal health status, the region
can appeal that decision via letter and include additional information that might cause the
Agency to reevaluate its decision. No official form is involved in this collection process.
Written Recommendations Have Been Implemented by the Region
In some cases, APHIS gives a region written recommendations to help the region attain APHIS
recognition of the animal health status it desires. Before proceeding with the evaluation, APHIS
will need documentation from the region that the recommendations have been implemented. No
official form is involved in this collection process.
Certification for Equines that Spend Less than 60 Days in a Region
If a horse or other equine is presented for import from a region where it has been for less than
60 days, the importer must ensure that the equine is accompanied by a certification from each
region in which it has been during the 60 days immediately before its shipment to the United
States. This helps ensure that the equine has not been exposed to a communicable disease such as
African horse sickness.
10

The following five form activities are being merged from 0579-0324 into 0579-0040.
Permanent Electronic Identification Compatible Reader for Horses
If a horse has permanent electronic identification, the horse must be accompanied by a
compatible reader to confirm the animal’s identification. This helps APHIS track these horses
throughout their stay in the United States and make sure they do not join the domestic U.S. horse
population without first undergoing CEM quarantine and testing for permanent entry. In
addition, horses without white markings or other identifying physical features are easier to
identify via a unique electronic identification. The reader is supplied by businesses, hobby
farmers, and non-profits. States and foreign governments use this to verify animal identification.
Photographs for Identification of Horses
APHIS requires that importers and brokers requesting import permits use photographs (head and
lateral views) sufficient to identify each horse on an electronic medium approved by APHIS.
Horses that do not have permanent electronic identification will need an additional form of
identification such as photographs. Photographs are especially helpful because it can still be
difficult to identify horses based on only written descriptions and their markings. The
photographs are supplied by businesses, hobby farmers and non-profits. States and foreign
governments use this to verify animal identification.
Written Plan for Medical Treatment of Horses
APHIS requires a written plan, completed by the importer, for handling sick or injured horses
that includes:
(a) The name, address, and phone number of each accredited veterinarian who will provide
veterinary services in the United States;
(b) The name, address, and phone number of medical facilities to be used to diagnose or treat
sick or injured horses while in the Unites States; and
(c) A plan to return sick or injured horses to performance condition.
This information is needed to adequately monitor the movement of horses imported under this
regulation and ensure that emergency health care is available to them. APHIS will need to
inspect the facilities where horses will be hospitalized to ensure that adequate quarantine is
available. Written plans for treatment are supplied by businesses.
Statement for Horses Imported from Countries Affected with Screwworm
Horses entering the United States from regions where screwworm is known to exist must be
accompanied by a certificate, issued, completed, and signed by a full-time salaried veterinary
official of the exporting country. The certificate states that the horses have been thoroughly
examined and treated with ivermectin, that any visible wounds have been treated with
coumaphos, and that the horses appear to be free of screwworm.

11

Checklist for the Approval of Permanent, Privately Owned Equine Quarantine Facilities
APHIS developed a checklist to assist APHIS personnel when inspecting permanent, privately
owned equine quarantine facilities. The checklist outlines standards for construction, operations,
and recordkeeping that must be identified for approval. The operator of the facility must provide
information verbally about the facility to an APHIS employee for APHIS to complete the
checklist. Businesses, hobby farmers and non-profits submit this form.
These forms are currently approved under collection 0579-0090.
VS Form10-4, Specimen Submission; VS Form I0-4A, Continuation Sheet for Specimen
Submission
VS Forms 10-4 and 10-4A are completed by State veterinarians or other State representatives,
accredited veterinarians, private laboratories, and research institutions. Authorized individuals
complete the form using information obtained through discussions with the animal owners. The
foundation of the animal disease surveillance program is based on the information submitted on VS
Forms 10-4 and 10-4A. This information identifies the individual animal from which specimens were
taken, the animal’s herd or flock, the type of specimen submitted, and the purpose for submitting the
specimen. Without the information contained on this form, NVSL staff would not be able to identify
or process the specimens sent for analysis. Additionally, if the information is not collected (or
collected less frequently), APHIS would not have the critical information necessary to effectively
operate a disease surveillance program.

3. Describe whether, and to what extent, the collection of information involves the use of
automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other
forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses, and
the basis for the decision for adopting this means of collection. Also describe any
consideration of using information technology to reduce burden.
90-day Written Bird Possession Statement - Canada
This is part of VS 17-8.
Agreement of Pet Bird Owner for Confinement in Personal Possession (Declaration and
Affirmation Under Oath) (VS 17-8)
This form has been added to a VS electronic system. VS IT specialists continue to work to make
the system accessible to State partners and members of the public.
Import Permit to Transit Poultry, Hatching Eggs, or Birds, (VS 17-135A)
This form is available online in a pdf format, or may be mailed or emailed to an applicant,
through a telephone or email request to APHIS. It must accompany the shipments, and so is not a
candidate for electronic submission.

12

Application and Space Reservation Request for Ratites and Ratite Hatching Eggs and Site
Inspection (VS 17-128)
This form is not currently in use.
Submission of ratite registers
APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the number of yearly submissions is low.
Declaration of Importation of Animals, Animal Semen, Embryos, Birds, Poultry, and Eggs
for Hatching (VS 17-29)
This multi-copy carbon form cannot be submitted to APHIS electronically because it must be
presented with the imports. The form is available on the APHIS website at
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/wps/portal/footer/resources/manualsandguidelines. Respondents can
complete one page of the form electronically and print it to make additional copies.
Request for Hearing for Withdrawal of an Import Permit for Ratites or Ratite Hatching
Eggs
There is no form; APHIS regulations specify that the importer write a letter for this purpose.
There may be multiple reasons why a request can be made. Because each request may entail a
unique situation, an electronic form cannot be created for this purpose.
Cooperative Agreement and Trust Fund for Privately Owned Bird or Poultry Quarantine
Facilities
Parts of this burden are electronic; much of it is completed by APHIS from information from the
importer or exporter, and discussed at the time of signature.
Daily Log and Recordkeeping for Identification Record for Birds or Poultry (VS 17-12)
APHIS requires this log be kept and maintained, but specifies no method for doing so. APHIS no
plans to create an electronic submission system as the records are kept at the site, and not
submitted to APHIS.
Application for Import or In-Transit Permit (for Live Animals, Animal Semen, Animal
Embryos, Birds, Poultry, or Hatching Eggs), (VS 17-129)
This form is available on the internet as a fillable form that can be electronically submitted to
APHIS; or may be mailed or emailed to an applicant, through a telephone or email request to
APHIS.
Request Space at USDA Operated Quarantine Facilities and Includes Mailing Copies
This request is made via phone or by email.

13

Letter of Credit, Cashier’s Check, Certified Check, or Money Order
This activity cannot be submitted electronically because these are non-electronic means of
payment. Therefore, APHIS cannot develop a website where the non-electronic means of
payment can be made. Credit cards can be used for electronic payment, but are not specified in
the CFR.
Export Health Certificates
This form varies by each exporting country, and cannot be submitted to APHIS electronically
because it must be physically presented with the imports.
Written Notice of Cancellation from Importer
This notice can be sent to APHIS via fax or e-mail. APHIS has not received any requests from
importers for an electronic submission system and does not specify a form of submission.
Daily Record of Horse’s Activities
APHIS does not specify how the records must be maintained or submitted. The trainer or horse
owner could complete and submit the records electronically based on the protocol of the
recordkeeping association that the Department has approved.
Written Request to Change Horse’s Itinerary or Method of Transport
This request can be sent to APHIS via an e-mail. It is not available for electronic submission;
APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the number of yearly submissions is low.
Appeal or Hearing of Import Permit Withdrawal
This request can be sent to APHIS via an e-mail. This document is not a candidate for electronic
submission. APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the number of yearly
submissions is low.
Written Agreement with State for CEM (Monitoring by State)
Because an original signature is required, this document is not a candidate for electronic
submission.
Opportunity to Present View on Suspension
This request can be sent to APHIS in writing or via an e-mail. This document is not a candidate
for electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the number of
yearly submissions is low.
Zoological Park Inspection Report (VS 17-65A)
APHIS has not developed a database for electronic submission of this form because the number
of yearly submissions is low.

14

Agreement for the Importation, Quarantine, and Exhibition of Certain Wild Ruminants
and Wild Swine (VS 17-65B)
APHIS has not developed a database for electronic submission of this form because the number
of yearly submissions is low.
Report of Zoo Animals with Suspected Cases of Contagious or Communicable Diseases
(VS 17-65C)
APHIS has not developed a database for electronic submission of this form because the number
of yearly submissions is low.
Agreement for Transfer of Certain Wild Animals (VS 17-65D)
APHIS has not developed a database for electronic submission of this form because the number
of yearly submissions is low.
Application for Approval of Quarantine or Holding Facility (Letter)
This document is not a candidate for electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database
to do so because the number of yearly submissions is low.
Trust Fund or Compliance Agreement for Horses
Because an original signature is required, it is not a candidate for electronic submission.
Daily Log of Privately Owned Quarantine Facility for Ruminants, Swine, and Equine
APHIS requires this log be kept and maintained, but specifies no method for doing so. APHIS no
plans to create an electronic submission system as the records are kept at the site, and not
submitted to APHIS.
Application for Approval of Quarantine Facilities and Request for Transfer of Operations
to Another Facility for Birds or Poultry (VS 17-11)
The requested information can be sent to APHIS by letter, fax, or email. This document is not a
candidate for electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the
number of yearly submissions is low and the information requested is not standardized.
Written Request for Inspection, Other Services, and Dipping, (VS 17-32) (Application for
Inspection and Dipping)
This form is a candidate for electronic submission. The form is available in the Animal Import
Module in VSPS, and can be filled out by anyone (such as brokers) with access to VSPS).
Importer or Agent Certification Free of Fever Tick (Letter)
This form is not currently submitted electronically. APHIS is evaluating the information
collection activities relating to Mexican cattle imported into the United States to streamline those
activities as part of its development of a proposed rule to recognize certain regions in Mexico as
free of fever ticks.

15

Owner Affidavit for Sheep and Goats from Scrapie Regions
This document must accompany the shipment, and so is not a candidate for electronic
submission.
Request for Recognition of the Animal Health Status of a Region
This request can be sent to APHIS by letter, fax, or email. This document is not a candidate for
electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the number of
yearly submissions is low.
Application for Recognition of the Animal Health Status of a Region
The application questionnaire is available on the APHIS Web site:
www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/animals/downloads/info_request_recognition_region.pdf
The data associated with APHIS regionalization program, including the questionnaire, can be
sent to APHIS by letter, fax, or email. This document is not a candidate for electronic
submission. APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the number of yearly
submissions is low.
Application for Recognition of a Region as Historically Free of a Disease
The application questionnaire is available on the APHIS Web site:
www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/animals/downloads/info_req_recognition_historicallyfree_region.pdf
The data associated with APHIS regionalization program, including the questionnaire, can be
sent to APHIS by letter, fax, or email. This document is not a candidate for electronic
submission. APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the number of yearly
submissions is low.
Request for Additional Information about a Region
The requested information can be sent to APHIS by letter, fax, or email. This document is not a
candidate for electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the
number of yearly submissions is low and the information requested is not standardized.
Appeal Classification of Animal Health Status
The appeal and supporting information can be sent to APHIS by letter, fax, or email. This
document is not a candidate for electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database to
do so because the number of yearly submissions is low and the appeals are highly variable.
Written Recommendations Have Been Implemented by the Region
Documentation supporting implementation of written recommendations can be sent to APHIS by
letter, fax, or email. This document is not a candidate for electronic submission. APHIS has not
developed a database to do so because the number of yearly submissions is low and the
recommendations vary.
16

Certification for Equines that Spend Less than 60 Days in a Region
This document must accompany the horse during shipment, and is not a candidate for electronic
submission.
Permanent Electronic Identification Compatible Reader for Horses
This is required to travel with the animal and so is not a candidate for electronic submission.
Photographs for Identification of Horses
These are required to travel with the animal and so are not candidates for electronic submission.
Written Plan for Medical Treatment of Horses
The information can be sent to APHIS by letter, fax, or email. This document is not a candidate
for electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database to do so because the number of
yearly submissions is low and the plans are highly variable.
Statement for Horses Imported from Countries Affected with Screwworm
This document is not a candidate for electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database
to do so because the number of yearly submissions is low.
Checklist for the Approval of Permanent, Privately Owned Equine Quarantine Facilities
This document is not a candidate for electronic submission. APHIS has not developed a database
to do so because the number of yearly submissions is low.
VS Form10-4, Specimen Submission; VS Form I0-4A, Continuation Sheet for Specimen
Submission
These forms currently requires submission of specimens with hard copies of VS forms 10-4 and 104A to ensure proper identification of the samples.

4. Describe efforts to identify duplication. Show specifically why any similar information
already available cannot be used or modified for use for the purpose described in item 2
above.
The information APHIS collects in connection with this program is not available from any other
source. APHIS is the only Agency responsible for preventing the introduction of foreign animal
diseases into the United States.

5. If the collection of information impacts small businesses or other small entities, describe
any methods used to minimize burden.
APHIS estimates that 25 percent of the total respondents are small entities. Information can be
collected in either a paper or electronic format, both of which are made available to importers at
no cost. The information APHIS collects in connection with its import programs is the minimum
17

needed to ensure that animals, poultry, animal and poultry products, zoological animals, and
animal germplasm imported into the United States pose a negligible risk of introducing foreign
animal diseases into the U.S. livestock and poultry populations.

6. Describe the consequence to Federal program or policy activities if the collection is not
conducted or is conducted less frequently, as well as any technical or legal obstacles to
reducing burden.
If the information were collected less frequently or not collected at all, it would diminish APHIS’
ability to protect the United States from foreign (and other communicable) animal disease
incursions. The U.S. livestock and poultry populations would suffer repeated disease outbreaks,
and many billions of dollars would need to be spent on containment and eradication efforts. In
addition, the U.S. livestock and poultry industries would suffer many additional billions of
dollars in losses, since the value of their products would be diminished both domestically and
internationally.

7. Explain any special circumstances that require the collection to be conducted in a
manner inconsistent with the general information collection guidelines in 5 CFR 1320.5.


requiring respondents to report information to the agency more often than
quarterly;
APHIS requires individuals to record information more than quarterly on their Daily Registers
and Daily Logs; however, the individuals are not required to submit the registers on a daily basis.


requiring respondents to prepare a written response to a collection of information less than 30 days after receipt of it;
APHIS requires importers to alert APHIS at least 72 hours before certain animals arrive at a
port.


requiring respondents to submit more than an original and two copies of any
document;



requiring respondents to retain records, other than health, medical, government contract, grant-in-aid, or tax records for more than three years;



in connection with a statistical survey, that is not designed to produce valid and
reliable results that can be generalized to the universe of study;



requiring the use of a statistical data classification that has not been reviewed
and approved by OMB;



that includes a pledge of confidentiality that is not supported by authority
established in statute or regulation, that is not supported by disclosure and data
18



security policies that are consistent with the pledge, or which unnecessarily
impedes sharing of data with other agencies for compatible confidential use; or
requiring respondents to submit proprietary trade secret, or other confidential
information unless the agency can demonstrate that it has instituted procedures
to protect the information's confidentiality to the extent permitted by law.

There are no other special circumstances; this information collection is otherwise conducted in a
manner consistent with the guidelines established in 5 CFR 1320.5.

8. Describe efforts to consult with persons outside the agency to obtain their views on the
availability of data, frequency of collection, the clarity of instructions and recordkeeping,
disclosure, or reporting form, and on the data elements to be recorded, disclosed, or
reported. If applicable, provide a copy and identify the date and page number of
publication in the Federal Register of the agency's notice, soliciting comments on the
information collection prior to submission to OMB.
On Thursday, January 30, 2014, page 4866, APHIS published in the Federal Register, a 60-day
notice seeking public comments on its plans to request a 3-year renewal of this collection of
information. One comment was received from a concerned citizen about her perception of the
maltreatment of animals. It had no relevance to the purpose of the collection.
In 2014, APHIS engaged in productive consultations with the following individuals in
connection with the information collection activities associated with its programs:
Chelsea Good, Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs
Livestock Marketing Association
10510 NW Ambassador Drive
Kansas City, MO 64153
Phone: (800) 821-2048
Ashley Peterson, Vice President of Scientific and Regulatory Affairs
National Chicken Council
1152 Fifteenth Street, NW, Suite 430
Washington, D.C. 20005-2622
Phone: (202) 296-2622
Matt Haug
Chicago Import Quarantine
2200 Euclid Ave.
Arlington Heights, IL 60006
Phone: (630) 715-0326
19

9. Explain any decision to provide any payment or gift to respondents, other than
reenumeration of contractors or grantees.
This information collection activity involves no payments or gifts to respondents.

10. Describe any assurance of confidentiality provided to respondents and the basis for the
assurance in statute, regulation, or agency policy.
No additional assurance of confidentiality is provided with this information collection. However,
the confidentiality of information is protected under 5 U.S.C. 552a.

11. Provide additional justification for any questions of a sensitive nature, such as sexual
behavior or attitudes, religious beliefs, and other matters that are commonly considered
private. This justification should include the reasons why the agency considers the
questions necessary, the specific uses to be made of the information, the explanation to be
given to persons from whom the information is requested, and any steps to be taken to
obtain their consent.
This information collection activity will ask no questions of a personal or sensitive nature.

12. Provide estimates of the hour burden of the collection of information. Indicate the
number of respondents, frequency of response, annual hour burden, and an explanation of
how the burden was estimated.
•Indicate the number of respondents, frequency of response, annual hour burden, and an
explanation of how the burden was estimated. If this request for approval covers more than
one form, provide separate hour burden estimates for each form and aggregate the hour
burdens in Item 13 of OMB Form 83-I.
See APHIS Form 71. Burden estimates were developed from discussions with importers of
animals and poultry, animal and poultry products, zoological animals, and animal germplasm
into the United States; foreign exporters of these items; foreign animal health authorities; and
State animal health authorities.
•Provide estimates of annualized cost to respondents for the hour burdens for collections of
information, identifying and using appropriate wage rate categories.
Respondents include foreign animal health authorities seeking to engage in the regionalization
process; U.S. importers; foreign exporters; veterinarians and animal health technicians in other
countries; State animal health authorities; shippers, owners, and operators of foreign processing
plants and farms; USDA-approved zoos; laboratories; feedlots; private quarantine facilities; and
20

other individuals involved (directly or indirectly) in importing animals and poultry, animal and
poultry products, zoological animals, and animal germplasm into the United States.
APHIS estimates the total annualized cost to these respondents to be $1,410,677.30. APHIS
arrived at this figure by multiplying the total burden hours (31,923) by the estimated average
hourly wage of the above respondents ($44.19). Estimated hourly wages for the respondents
were determined from the U.S. Department of Labor; Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2012
Report – National Compensation Survey: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2012. See
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_stru.htm.
Foreign animal health authorities $52.20 [11-0000 Management Occupations]
State animal health authorities $52.20 [11-0000 Management Occupations]
Importers and exporters $30.91 [41-4012 Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing,
Except Technical and Scientific Products]
Veterinarians $44.83 [29-1131 Veterinarians]
Animal health technicians $15.13 [29-2056 veterinary technologists and technicians]
Shippers $14.76 per hour [43-5071 Shipping, Receiving, and Traffic Clerks]
Owners and operators of foreign processing plants and farms $55.22 per hour [11-1021 General
and Operations Manager]
Owners and operators of zoos $55.22 per hour [11-1021 General and Operations Manager]
Owners and operators of labs $55.22 per hour [11-1021 General and Operations Manager]
Owners and operators of feedlots $55.22 per hour [11-1021 General and Operations Manager]
Owners and operators of private quarantine facilities $55.22 per hour [11-1021 General and
Operations Manager]

13. Provide estimates of the total annual cost burden to respondents or recordkeepers
resulting from the collection of information (do not include the cost of any hour burden
shown in items 12 and 14.) The cost estimates should be split into two components: (a) a
total capital and start-up cost component annualized over its expected useful life; and (b) a
total operation and maintenance and purchase of services component.
No annual cost burden is associated with capital and startup costs, operation and maintenance
expenditures, and purchase of services.

14. Provide estimates of annualized cost to the Federal government. Provide a description
of the method used to estimate cost and any other expense that would not have been
incurred without this collection of information.
The annualized cost to the Federal government is estimated at $540,518.02 (See APHIS Form
79.)

21

15. Explain the reasons for any program changes or adjustments reported in Items 13 or 14
of the OMB Form 83-1.
ICR Summary of Burden:

121,397

0

Program
Change
Change
Change
Due to
Due to
Previously
Due to Adjustment Potential
Approved
Agency
in Agency Violation of
Discretion Estimate
the PRA
-850
-137,624
0
259,871

31,923

0

-283

Program
Change
Requested
Due to New
Statute
Annual
Number of
Responses
Annual Time
Burden (Hr)

-69,423

0

101,629

Program Change
There is a program decrease in the number of responses and burden hours because VS Forms
17-20 and 17-23 are no longer required in this collection. The number of responses decreased by
850 and the burden hours by 283. The necessary information is now obtained from the VS
17-129.
Adjustment
The tota1 number of respondents increased from 2,696 to 3,099.
However, the total annual responses decreased by 137,624, and the total burden hours also
decreased by 69,423 as a result of the following:




One State withdrew from the Federal CEM testing program,
The number of letters of credit, cashier’s check, certified check, or money order has been
corrected in this collection,
Miscalculated the number of responses per respondent in the last submission.

The combination of these changes resulted in an overall increase of 403 respondents; but a
decrease of 138,474 responses (229,871 to 121,397) and a decrease of 69,706 burden hours
(101,629 to 31,923).

22

16. For collections of information whose results are planned to be published, outline plans
for tabulation and publication.
APHIS has no plans to publish information it collects in connection with this program.

17. If seeking approval to not display the expiration date for OMB approval of the
information collection, explain the reasons that display would be inappropriate.
VS 17-8, 17-29, and 17-129 are used in multiple collections; therefore, it is not practical to
include an OMB expiration date because of the various expiration dates for each collection.
APHIS is seeking approval to not display the OMB expiration date on these forms.
All other official forms will have expiration dates listed.

18. Explain each exception to the certification statement identified under "Certification for
Paperwork Reduction Act."
APHIS can certify compliance with all provisions in the Act.

B. Collections of Information Employing Statistical Methods
No statistical methods are associated with the information collection activities used in this
program.

23