Prepared for Canadian Food Inspection Agency
For more information on this report, please contact Canadian Food Inspection Agency at cfia.information.acia@inspection.gc.ca
This report presents the results of an online survey conducted by Ekos Research Associates Inc. on behalf of Canadian Food Inspection Agency. This research was conducted between January 23 to February 14, 2023. This research consisted of an online survey with 2,076 Canadians, as well as focus groups with the public and pet owners, and in-depth interviews with individuals involved in commercial dog imports (for example, breeders, veterinarians, and animal welfare organizations).
Cette publication est aussi disponible en français sous le titre : Recherche sur l'opinion publique 2022-2023 auprès de Canadiens sur le commerce d'animaux.
This publication may be reproduced for non-commercial purposes only. Prior written permission must be obtained from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
For more information on this report, please contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Related publications (registration number: POR 091-22)
© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Public Works and Government Services, 2023
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for mitigating the risk of introduction and spread of certain animal diseases that could negatively impact both human health and animal health. Animal imports are one avenue in which diseases can enter and spread in Canada. The CFIA has increased its focus on dog imports, as there has been an increase in significant issues related to dog imports, such as non-compliances with humane transportation requirements and cases of canine-variant rabies (dog rabies) being introduced into Canada. A new temporary measure that prohibits the importation of commercial dogs into Canada from countries at high-risk for dog rabies came into effect on September 28, 2022, with plans for expansion to apply additional conditions for importing personal pet dogs and assistance dogs from these countries. This research will support the CFIA in identifying areas that are of concern to the public and opportunities to improve outreach related to both dog and pet imports, as the CFIA continues to evaluate options for long term strategies.
Based on the volume, frequency, and types of questions received by both the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the CFIA, there is also a need to expand on communications about pet[1] imports and exports as a whole. The objective of this research is to develop a better understanding of audiences who are involved in the pet trade (import/exports): such as an individual's decision-making journey when adopting or purchasing a pet from abroad; individuals who travel with their pets or bring their pets to Canada; and the role that commercial importers (such as breeders, resellers, and animal welfare organizations) play in this broader ecosystem. This research also helps the CFIA identify and test key messages for future communications products.
Results will aid in the development of future communications tools and outreach campaigns as well as inform future policy and programs related to pet imports and exports.
This research involved an online survey of 2,076 Canadians, as well as focus groups with the public and pet owners, and in-depth interviews with individuals involved in commercial dog imports (for example, breeders, veterinarians, and animal welfare organizations). The survey results can be considered representative of the Canadian general public, and are valid within a margin of error of +/- 2.2 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
Following data collection, the data from this survey were statistically weighted by age, gender, region, education, and dog ownership to ensure the sample is representative of the Canadian population according to 2021 Census data.
Differences noted underneath charts are statistically significant differences.
For the qualitative wave (focus groups and in-depth interviews) it should be noted that qualitative results are not generalizable to the broader population. Qualitative research seeks to develop insight and direction rather than quantitatively projectable measures. The purpose is not to generate "statistics" but to hear the full range of opinions on a topic, understand the language participants use, gauge degrees of passion and engagement and leverage the power of the group to inspire ideas. Participants are encouraged to voice their opinions, irrespective of whether or not that view is supported by evidence or shared by others. In some instances language such as many, some, or few is used to help provide directional context for the reader. It is not intended to quantify the findings.
Due to the sample size, the special recruitment methods used, and the study objectives themselves, it is clearly understood that the work under discussion is exploratory in nature. The findings are not, nor were they intended to be, projectable to a larger population.
Specifically, it is inappropriate to suggest or to infer that few (or many) real-world users would behave in one way simply because few (or many) participants behaved in this way during the sessions. This kind of projection is strictly the prerogative of quantitative research.
Appendix A contains a detailed description of the methodology used in this study.
Appendix B contains the full survey questionnaire.
Appendix C contains the focus group screening questionnaire.
Appendix D contains the focus group guide.
Appendix E contains the in-depth interview guide.
Outlined below are key findings from the online survey. The remainder of this report describes survey results in more detail.
Results reveal that many Canadians own pets. 56% of survey respondents indicated they own a pet, while 44% said they did not. Those who own pets were asked what type of pet(s) they own. Most indicated that they own dogs (62%) or cats (53%).
Canadians who own pets were asked where they acquired their pet. 28% indicated a Canadian breeder, followed by an animal welfare/rescue organization (24%), or a Humane Society/Canadian shelter (21%).
Results suggest that Canadians undertake limited research before acquiring a pet. Just under half (49%) indicated they researched the organization/source from which they acquired their pet to a great extent, and 1 in 3 (33%) researched the organization/source to only a little extent.
Those who own a pet were asked the origin of their pet. Results suggest that most pets are born in Canada (83%), however a sizeable minority were born outside of Canada and then brought into the country by someone else (9%), or acquired directly from another country (6%).
Those who acquired their pet directly from another country were asked where they found information on requirements for bringing their pet(s) into Canada. Government websites were mentioned most often (57%), followed fairly distantly by a web search engine (20%), calling a government agency (18%), or an animal welfare/rescue organization (18%).
Respondents were asked if they were considering getting a pet in the next year. About 1 in 4 (23%) said yes, while two thirds (64%) indicated no. Those considering getting a pet in the next year were asked whether they think they will get a pet born in Canada, or one that is born in another country and then brought into Canada before adopting it. Most (74%) say they will get a Canadian born animal, however, a fairly large proportion (22%) are unsure.
Those who believe they will acquire their pet from outside the country were asked where they would look for information about bringing a pet into Canada. Most of these respondents indicated they would get this information from a government website or an animal welfare/rescue organization.
All pet owners were asked if they had ever travelled outside of Canada with their pet(s). The majority of pet owners (83%) indicate they have not travelled abroad with their pet(s), while about 1 in 6 (17%) say they have.
Those who travelled outside Canada with their pet(s) were asked how often they travel with their pet(s). Most (41%) have only travelled once or twice since they have owned their pet(s), although a fairly large proportion (20%) say they travel more than 3 times per year with their pet(s), and a further 15% say they travel 2-3 times per year with their pet(s). The United States is mentioned most often (89%) as the country to which these respondents travelled, followed distantly by Mexico (5%), and the Bahamas (2%).
All pet owners were asked to rate their awareness of requirements regarding travelling with pet(s). Results suggest Canadian pet owners feel they are generally knowledgeable about these requirements. More than half (56%) say they are very aware that if they travel with a pet they will need to meet specific requirements to bring the animal into the country they are visiting, and 51% say they are very aware that they will also need to meet specific requirements when bringing the animal back into Canada.
All respondents were asked to rate their understanding of the regulations and requirements for bringing pets into Canada. Results reveal limited awareness of these requirements (although awareness is significantly higher among pet/dog owners). Overall, only 1 in 4 (24%) indicate they understand these requirements, while 49% indicate little understanding of these requirements. However, 38% of dog owners, and a clear majority (72%) of those who acquired their pet directly from another country indicate awareness of these requirements.
Canadians generally feel primary responsibility for ensuring that pets brought into Canada are healthy and free of animal disease rests with the individual/organization that brings the animal into Canada (48%). The government is seen as having somewhat lower responsibility (29%), and the individual adopting the pet is assigned lowest responsibility (18%).
When asked which government departments should be consulted when bringing pets into Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency is mentioned most often (81%), followed distantly by the Public Health Agency of Canada (32%), and provincial government departments (26%). Interestingly, the CFIA is fairly low on the list of departments to check (17%), however, this rises to 34% among those who acquired their pet directly from another country.
Respondents were provided with information about rabies and then asked how concerned they were about dog rabies getting into Canada. Interestingly, despite being informed that globally dog rabies kills 59,000 people every year, and that it is prevalent in over 100 countries, fewer than half of Canadians (46%) are concerned about rabies entering the country, and 1 in 3 (32%) express little concern about this possibility.
Respondents were also informed that the Canadian government had recently introduced a new measure that prohibits commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies from entering Canada, and asked if they were aware of this new measure. Results reveal limited awareness of this new measure: 8 in 10 (79%) are not aware of it, while only 1 in 5 (20%) say they are aware.
Despite limited awareness of this new measure, when asked if they support or oppose this new measure 70% of Canadians support this regulation, and only 1 in 10 (9%) oppose it.
When asked to identify the reasons for supporting this measure, the health of pets, wildlife, and animals in general (14%), and protecting human health (13%) were mentioned most often.
All respondents were also asked how important they think it is that the Government of Canada prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases that are not currently in Canada. Results reveal that the vast majority of Canadians (88%) assign high importance to this issue, and very few (3%) view this as being of little importance.
Results are more mixed in terms of belief in the government's ability to actually prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases into Canada. Only 4 in 10 (42%) express confidence in the government's ability to prevent the entry of serious animal diseases into Canada, and almost 3 in 10 (27%) express little confidence in the government's ability to do this.
When asked if they were aware that the CFIA's website has information for bringing animals/pets into Canada, three quarters of Canadians (73%) indicated they were unaware of the website. 1 in 5 (22%) indicated they were aware of the site but have never used it, and only 5% have used the website. However, awareness/use of the CFIA website is significantly higher among dog owners (36%), and those who acquired their pet directly (58%) or indirectly (36%) from another country.
Those who have used the CFIA website were asked to rate the usefulness of the site in helping find information about the requirements for importing animals/pets. The majority of these respondents (73%) indicated they found the site to be helpful, and only 14% thought the site was of little help in finding information about importing pets into Canada. And notably, 94% of those who acquired their pet from another country felt the CFIA website was helpful.
All respondents were asked if they had seen, read, or heard any Government of Canada advertising about adopting or purchasing a pet. The vast majority of indicated they had not been exposed to this advertising (95%).
Among those who indicated they had seen Government of Canada advertising about adopting or purchasing a pet, most indicated they had seen the ads on television (38%), or Facebook (30%).
The majority of respondents who saw the ads indicated that they did not take action as a result of seeing the ads (87%), and only about 1 in 8 (13%) said they did take action as a result of the advertising.
Despite the limited reach and impact of the advertising, views on the ads are generally positive, with 8 in 10 indicating the ads talk about an important topic, and 7 in 10 agreeing that the ads provided new information, and caught their attention.
Outlined below are key findings from the focus groups and in-depth interviews. The remainder of this report describes qualitative results in more detail.
Focus group participants agree that it is important to consider where a dog is acquired, with a priority placed on obtaining a dog from local sources, and that prior to acquiring a dog, it is important to understand the dog's history, characteristics of the dog or breed, and health information. The opportunity to foster a dog, or talk to the dog's foster, is also seen as helpful before making a decision.
Many participants felt that there is less opportunity to investigate these factors when acquiring a dog from another country. The risk of disease, and travel stress for the dog, along with the abundant availability of dogs in Canada for rescue or adoption, were also mentioned as potential reasons for not acquiring a dog from abroad.
Very few focus group participants have experience with the requirements and procedures for bringing a dog into Canada. Few had accessed the CFIA website to look for information about requirements; however, those who had accessed the CFIA website were able to obtain the necessary information.
Some focus group participants were aware of recent cases of rabies but very few have heard about canine-variant rabies (dog rabies). There was limited concern about the spread of rabies as focus group participants felt that rabies is very rare. A few talked about government measures to distribute vaccination packets to wildlife or prevent dog rabies.
There is moderate awareness of recent measures to prevent dog rabies from entering Canada among focus group participants. Many participants support the measures to prohibit commercial dogs from entering Canada who originate from countries at high-risk for dog rabies. Some who supported it also offered modifications to these measures such as quarantining a dog or producing historical records of rabies vaccination, rather than an outright prohibition.
Five examples of advertisements were presented to focus group participants that were used in previous international dog adoption campaigns. Participants were asked to provide feedback on various attributes of the advertisements.
Interview participants indicated that the primary consideration when importing a dog to Canada is the health of the dog. This can be determined through proof of vaccination, health assessment by a veterinarian, and reputation of the welfare/rescue organization or breeder, according to participants. Information should also be obtained about the temperament of the dog, and potential health issues associated with the particular breed of dog.
When importing dogs from outside Canada, most participants were concerned about introducing diseases to other animals. Many participants agree that potential dog owners are apt to make emotional decisions when importing a dog from another country. Participants are divided on the need for importing dogs into Canada for adoption/rehoming; some feel the dogs may be living in poor conditions in other countries with few prospects so are in need of adoption, while others point out that there are many potential dogs in Canada in need of adoption, particularly in the North.
Many participants were familiar with canine variant rabies or dog rabies, along with the measure implemented in September 2022, to prohibit commercial dogs being imported into Canada from countries at high-risk for dog rabies. Many interview participants support the measure; however, some feel that it is not necessary as long as there are certificates of health or vaccine records available.
Some felt that is it ineffective to apply the measure only to commercial dogs, when other dogs, presented as personal dogs, may enter Canada with rabies. Alternatively, many participants were comfortable with personal dogs entering from countries at high-risk for dog rabies, as long as sufficient health records were available. Some participants support the use of a quarantine for dogs coming into Canada from high-risk countries, rather than a prohibition. Some participants also pointed out that there are diseases prevalent in dogs in other countries aside from rabies that are of concern when bringing a dog to Canada.
Interview participants felt that the CFIA may help provide education, tools and information to the industry and pet owners regarding factors to consider when bringing an animal to Canada. Most participants felt that fraudulent paperwork is a concern, although difficult to mitigate. Suggestions to address this included the creation of standardized documentation and a microchip requirement for all dogs. Individuals presenting non-compliant animals at a border should be denied entry, according to most interview participants, with many supporting a ban to the importer on future attempts to enter Canada, along with a fine. Most interview participants support the use of a classification system to identify reputable importers, allowing them to bring dogs into the country, even from higher risk countries.
Results from this study point to a need for public education given that many pet owners acquire (or may acquire) dogs from outside of Canada, yet Canadians have limited understanding of the requirements for bringing pets into Canada (although understanding of these requirements is higher among those who acquired their pet from outside the country).
Survey results reveal limited awareness and use of the CFIA website containing information for bringing animals/pets into Canada. However, awareness/use of the CFIA website is significantly higher among those who acquired their pet directly or indirectly from another country. Findings also reveal that the majority of those who have used the website found the site to be helpful, with 94% of those who acquired their pet from another country indicating the CFIA website was helpful. Qualitative findings reinforce these survey results. While few focus group participants had accessed the CFIA website to look for information about requirements, those who had accessed the website said they were able to obtain necessary information from the site.
Survey results reveal limited public concern about dog rabies entering Canada, and little awareness of a new Government of Canada measure prohibiting commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies from entering Canada. However, despite limited concern about rabies entering the country, or awareness of this new measure, results reveal strong support for the measure. Qualitative results generally reinforce these survey findings. Most focus group and in-depth interview participants express limited concern about rabies, but support the measures to prohibit commercial dogs from entering Canada who originate from countries at high-risk for dog rabies. However, qualitative findings also reveal that some participants feel that a prohibition is not necessary as long as there are health certificates or vaccine records available; while others prefer the use of a quarantine for dogs coming to Canada from high-risk countries, rather than an outright prohibition. A number of stakeholders argued for a focus on a broader array of diseases, rather than an exclusive focus on rabies.
Survey findings also indicate that Canadians strongly believe it is important that the Government of Canada prevent the entry of animal diseases into Canada, but express more mixed views in terms of belief in the government's ability to actually achieve this.
Survey results suggest that the CFIA is reaching its most important target audience (in other words, those who acquire their pets/dogs directly or indirectly from outside the country) with needed information about the requirements for bringing pets into Canada, but that the public as a whole, and pet owners whose pets were born in Canada, are less aware of this information. Given that a fairly large proportion of Canadians are considering getting a pet in the next year, and that many are unsure if they will acquire this pet from outside Canada, it is important to broaden the reach of this information and better communicate the resources CFIA has to help when bringing pets into Canada. This increased communication about requirements and resources for importing pets into the country might also help improve Canadians' confidence in government efforts to prevent serious animal diseases from entering Canada.
Increased communication from government is also mentioned by focus group and interview participants. Several focus group participants emphasized the need for education efforts to inform the public, and in particular dog owners and prospective dog owners, of the issues and considerations with regard to the various risks when bringing a dog into the country. And many in-depth interview participants felt the CFIA is well positioned to help provide education, tools and information to the industry and pet owners regarding factors to consider when bringing an animal to Canada. A few interview participants also felt the government should do a better job of consulting with industry before implementing new measures such as the recent prohibition on importing commercial dogs into Canada from countries at high-risk for dog rabies.
The contract value for the POR project is $98,084.00 (including HST).
To obtain more information on this study, please contact CFIA at cfia.inquiries-demandederenseignements.acia@canada.ca
I hereby certify as Senior Officer of Ekos Research Associates Inc. that the deliverables fully comply with the Government of Canada political neutrality requirements outlined in the Policy on Communications and Federal Identity and the Directive on the Management of Communications.
Specifically, the deliverables do not include information on electoral voting intentions, political party preferences, standings with the electorate, or ratings of the performance of a political party or its leaders.
Signed by Derek Jansen (Vice President)
Respondents were first asked if they owned any pets. 56% indicated they did, while 44% said they did not.
Q1. Do you own any pets?
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to the statement "yes" across three categories: overall, gender, and age.
Respondents were asked: "Do you own any pets"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Those who indicated they own pets were asked how many animals they owned. Most indicated just one (46%), however, about 1 in 4 of these respondents said they owned two pets (27%), or three or more pets (27%).
Q2. How many pets do you own?
Base: n=1,286
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to three statements.
Respondents were asked: "How many pets do you own?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=1,286
Type of Pets Owned
Those who own pets were asked what type of pet(s) they own. Most own dogs (62%) or cats (53%). About 1 in 10 (8%) say they own fish.
Q3b. What type of pet(s) do you own? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=1,286
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to nine statements.
Respondents were asked: "What type of pet(s) do you own?" [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=1,286
Canadians who own pets were also asked where the acquired their pet. 28% indicated a Canadian breeder, followed by an animal welfare/rescue organization (24%), and a Humane Society/Canadian shelter (21%).
Q4. Where did you get your pet(s)? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=1,268
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to eleven statements.
Respondents were asked: "Where did you get your pet(s)?" [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=1,268
Those who own pet(s) were asked the origin of their pet. Results suggest that most pets are born in Canada (83%), while a sizeable minority were born outside of Canada and then brought into the country by someone else (9%), or acquired by the owner directly from another country (6%).
Q6a. Regardless of where you obtained your pet, to the best of your knowledge, was your pet born in Canada, brought into Canada from another country (i.e. was born outside of Canada and then brought into the country by somebody else), or did you acquire the pet directly from another country?
Base: n=1,286
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "Regardless of where you obtained your pet, to the best of your knowledge, was your pet born in Canada, brought into Canada from another country (i.e. was born outside of Canada and then brought into the country by somebody else), or did you acquire the pet directly from another country?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=1,286
Pet owners were asked the extent to which they researched the organization/source from which they acquired their pet. Results reveal that Canadians undertake limited research before acquiring a pet. Just under half (49%) indicated they researched the organization/source from which they acquired their pet to a great extent, and 1 in 3 of these respondents (33%) researched the organization/source to only a little extent.
Q5. To what extent did you research the organization/source from which you acquired your pet(s)? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means to no extent, 7 means to a great extent, and 4 means to some extent.
Base: n=1,268
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "To what extent did you research the organization/source from which you acquired your pet(s)? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means to no extent, 7 means to a great extent, and 4 means to some extent."
Respondents selected:
Base: n=1,268
Those who acquired their pet directly from another country or chose a pet that was born outside Canada and then brought into the country were asked, unprompted, why they did this. Most of these respondents indicated they wanted to help an animal in distress (41%), or that the breed they desired was not available in Canada (26%).
Q7. Why did you acquire your pet(s) from/choose a pet that was born outside Canada and then brought into the country by somebody else? [Open ended]
Base: n=356
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to eleven statements.
Respondents were asked: "Why did you acquire your pet(s) from/choose a pet that was born outside Canada and then brought into the country by somebody else?" [Open ended]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=356
Those who acquired their pet directly from another country were asked what action they took before acquiring the pet. Most of these respondents indicated that they asked for the health status and paperwork about the pet from the individual/organization providing the animal (69%), checked requirements for bringing an animal into Canada (63%), and/or asked questions about where the pet was kept and cared for before being offered for adoption (56%).
Q8. What actions did you take before acquiring your pet? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=145
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to nine statements.
Respondents were asked: "What actions did you take before acquiring your pet?" [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=145
Those who acquired their pet directly from another country were also asked where they found information on requirements for bringing their pet(s) into Canada. Government websites were mentioned most often (57%), followed fairly distantly by a web search engine (20%), calling a government department/agency (18%), or an animal welfare/rescue organization (18%).
Q9. How did you find information on the requirements to bring your pet(s) into Canada? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=145
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to sixteen statements.
Respondents were asked: "How did you find information on the requirements to bring your pet(s) into Canada?" [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=145
All respondents were asked if they were considering getting a pet in the next year. About 1 in 4 (23%) said yes, while two thirds (64%) indicated no. Just over 1 in 10 (13%) were unsure.
Q10. Are you considering getting a pet in the next year?
Base: n=2,055
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to the statement "yes" across three categories: overall, age, and education.
Respondents were asked: "Are you considering getting a pet in the next year?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,055
Those who indicated they were considering getting a pet within the next year were asked what kind of pet they were thinking of getting. Dogs were mentioned most often (61%), followed by cats (29%).
Q11. What kind of pet are you thinking of getting?
Base: n=764
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to six statements.
Respondents were asked: "What kind of pet are you thinking of getting?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=764
Survey results reveal that the vast majority of those considering getting a pet in the next year plan to acquire the animal from an organization/source within Canada (91%).
Q12. Do you think you will get a pet from an organization/source within Canada or from outside the country?
Base: n=717
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to three statements.
Respondents were asked: "Do you think you will get a pet from an organization/source within Canada or from outside the country?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=717
Those who were planning on getting a dog within the next year, and who indicated they would acquire their pet from within Canada were asked if they knew the animal was from another country before it came to Canada would they still want to adopt the animal. Results to this question are mixed: 47% indicated they would still follow through with the adoption, however, 21% indicated no, and 32% were unsure.
Q13. If you knew that the animal was from another country before it came to Canada, would you still want to follow through with the purchase/adoption?
Base: n=459
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to the statement "yes" across three categories: overall, gender, and education.
Respondents were asked: "If you knew that the animal was from another country before it came to Canada, would you still want to follow through with the purchase/adoption?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=459
Those considering getting a pet in the next year were also asked whether they think they will get a pet born in Canada, or one that is born in another country and then brought into Canada before adopting it. Most (74%) say they will get a Canadian born animal, however, a fairly large proportion (22%) are unsure.
Q14. Do you think you will get a pet that is born in Canada or born in another country and then brought into Canada before you acquire it?
Base: n=717
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "Do you think you will get a pet that is born in Canada or born in another country and then brought into Canada before you acquire it?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=717
Those who indicated they will acquire a pet born outside Canada were asked, unprompted, why they would do this. Most of these respondents indicated they felt they would have more options in terms of the pets available, that the breed of animal is only available outside of Canada, or that they want to help an animal in distress.
Q15a. Why do you think you will acquire a pet from outside Canada? [Open ended]
Base: n=27
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to nine statements.
Respondents were asked: "Why do you think you will acquire a pet from outside Canada?" [Open ended]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=27
Those who believe they will acquire their pet directly from another country were asked, unprompted, where they would look for information about bringing a pet into Canada. Most of these respondents indicated they would get this information from a government website or an animal welfare/rescue organization.
Q16. Where would you look for information about importing/bringing a pet into Canada? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=22
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to twelve statements.
Respondents were asked: "Where would you look for information about importing/bringing a pet into Canada" ? [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=22
All pet owners were asked if they had ever travelled outside of Canada with their pet(s). The majority of pet owners (83%) have not travelled outside of Canada with their pet(s), while about 1 in 6 (17%) say they have.
Q17. Thinking of the pet(s) you have now, have you ever travelled outside of Canada with your pet(s) (for vacation, moving abroad, etc.)?
Base: n=1,244
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to the statement "yes" across three categories: overall, education, and income.
Respondents were asked: "Thinking of the pet(s) you have now, have you ever travelled outside of Canada with your pet(s) (for vacation, moving abroad, etc.)?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=1,244
Those who indicate they have travelled outside of Canada with their pet(s) were asked to identify the countries to which they travelled. The United States is mentioned most often (89%), followed distantly by Mexico (5%), and the Bahamas (2%).
Q18. Which country/countries did you travel with your pet(s)? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=311
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to nine statements.
Respondents were asked: "Which country/countries did you travel with your pet(s)?" [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=311
Those who travelled outside of Canada with their pet(s) were also asked how often they travel with their pet(s). Most (41%) have only travelled once or twice since they have owned their pet(s), although a fairly large proportion (20%) say they travel more than 3 times per year with their pet(s), and a further 15% say they travel 2-3 times per year with their pet(s).
Q19. How often do you travel with your pet(s)?
Base: n=311
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to six statements.
Respondents were asked: "How often do you travel with your pet(s)?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=311
All pet owners were asked to rate their awareness of requirements regarding traveling with pet(s) or importing a pet from abroad. Results suggest Canadians feel they are generally knowledgeable about these requirements . More than half of Canadian pet owners (56%) say they are very aware that if they travel with a pet they will need to meet specific requirements to bring the animal into the country they are visiting, and 51% say they are very aware that they will also need to meet specific requirements when bringing the animal back into Canada. And almost half of Canadian pet owners (48%) claim to be very aware of requirements related to the purchase or adoption of a pet from abroad.
Q20a-c. Would you say you are very aware, somewhat aware, not very aware or not at all aware of each of the following?
Base: n=1,244
This stacked chart shows the percentage of results for responses to three statements across four categories: not at all aware, not very aware, moderately aware, and very aware.
Respondents were asked: ". Would you say you are very aware, somewhat aware, not very aware or not at all aware of each of the following?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=1,244
All respondents were asked to rate their understanding of the current regulations and requirements for bringing pets into Canada. Not surprisingly, when the question includes non-pet owners understanding of these regulations and requirements decreases. Only 1 in 4 (24%) indicate they understand these regulations and requirements, while 49% indicate little understanding of them.
Q23. How would you rate your understanding of current regulations and the requirements for bringing pets into Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means little understanding, 7 means a great deal of understanding, and 4 means some understanding.
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "How would you rate your understanding of current regulations and the requirements for bringing pets into Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means little understanding, 7 means a great deal of understanding, and 4 means some understanding."
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Survey results reveal Canadians feel that primary responsibility for ensuring that pets brought into Canada are healthy and free of animal disease rests with the individual/ organization that brings the animal into Canada (48%). The government is seen as having somewhat lower responsibility (29%), and the individual adopting the pet is assigned lowest responsibility (18%).
Q24. Who do you think should have the most responsibility in ensuring that the pets brought into Canada are healthy and free of animal diseases?
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "Who do you think should have the most responsibility in ensuring that the pets brought into Canada are healthy and free of animal diseases?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
When asked which government departments should be checked with when bringing pets into Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency is mentioned most often (81%), followed distantly by the Public Health Agency of Canada (32%), and provincial government departments (26%). Interestingly, the CFIA is fairly low on the list of government departments/agencies to check (17%).
Q25. To the best of your knowledge, when bringing pets into Canada, which government departments would you need to check with to ensure you are following all necessary laws and regulations? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to twelve statements.
Respondents were asked: "To the best of your knowledge, when bringing pets into Canada, which government departments would you need to check with to ensure you are following all necessary laws and regulations?" [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Respondents were provided with information about dog rabies and then asked how concerned they were about dog rabies getting into Canada. Interestingly, despite being informed that globally dog rabies kills 59,000 people every year, and that it is prevalent in over 100 countries, fewer than half of Canadians (46%) are concerned about dog rabies entering the country, and 1 in 3 (32%) express little concern about this possibility.
Q26. How concerned are you about dog rabies getting into Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all concerned, 7 means very concerned and 4 means somewhat concerned.
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "How concerned are you about dog rabies getting into Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all concerned, 7 means very concerned and 4 means somewhat concerned."
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Respondents were also informed that the Canadian government had recently introduced a new measure that prohibits commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies from entering Canada. They were then asked if they were aware of this new measure. Results reveal limited awareness of this new measure: 8 in 10 (79%) are not aware of this measure, while 1 in 5 (20%) say they are aware of this new measure.
Q27. Recently, the Canadian government introduced a new measure that prohibits commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies from entering Canada. Commercial dogs can include, but are not limited to dogs for resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition, research, and other purposes. Before this survey, were you aware of this new measure?
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to the statement "yes" across three categories: overall, gender, and education.
Respondents were asked: "Recently, the Canadian government introduced a new measure that prohibits commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies from entering Canada. Commercial dogs can include, but are not limited to dogs for resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition, research, and other purposes. Before this survey, were you aware of this new measure?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Those who indicated awareness of this new measure were asked where they heard about it. Television (39%) and newspaper (28%) were mentioned most often by these respondents as the source of their awareness of this new measure.
Q28. Where did you hear about this new measure? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=566
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to eighteen statements.
Respondents were asked: "Where did you hear about this new measure?" [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=566
All respondents were also asked how strongly they support or oppose this new measure. Despite limited concern about dog rabies entering Canada, 70% of Canadians support this new measure, and only 1 in 10 (9%) oppose it.
Q29. How strongly do you support or oppose this new measure? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means strongly oppose, 7 means strongly support, and 4 means neither support nor oppose.
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "How strongly do you support or oppose this new measure? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means strongly oppose, 7 means strongly support, and 4 means neither support nor oppose."
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Those who supported the measure were asked, unprompted, to identify the reasons for feeling this way. The health of pets, wildlife and animals in general (14%), and protecting human health (13%) were mentioned most often.
| Why do you say that? [Support] [Open ended] | Total |
|---|---|
| Response | n=1,477 |
| Health of animals/wildlife/pets in general, keep our animals safe (not specific to dogs) | 14% |
| To better protect human health | 13% |
| To better protect the health of dogs already in Canada | 11% |
| There are plenty of animals/dogs that are need of rescue/adoption here in Canada, why do we have to import any from other countries | 11% |
| Need to keep rabies out of Canada | 10% |
| Seems logical/responsible thing to do, need to react and prevent against it, preventative measures now is better than management of problem when here | 9% |
| Public health/safety, keep population safe, protection for all | 8% |
| Disease control | 7% |
| Need to regulate/enforce regulations on nefarious/untrustworthy/fraudulent breeders/dealers, eradicate irresponsible/for profit/scammers players | 4% |
| If they follow the proper regulations of vaccination/quarantine periods/papers/procedures they should be allowed entry | 4% |
| Rabies is a very serious disease, deadly/fatal disease | 4% |
| If they come from proven/responsible/reputable breeders/dealers/adoption agencies they should be allowed entry | 3% |
| Would need more information on it | 2% |
| Concerned about ineffective testing/lack of ability to detect rabies | 1% |
| Need for protection of ecosystem/plants/seeds | 1% |
| Other | 2% |
| Don't know/No response | 18% |
Those who opposed this new measure were also asked, unprompted, to identify the reasons for feeling this way. A preference for monitoring animals rather than an outright prohibition (36%), a belief that exceptions should be made for reputable rescue organizations (26%), and a general mistrust of government (15%) were mentioned most often as reasons for opposition to the measure.
| Why do you say that? [Oppose] [Open ended] | Total |
|---|---|
| Response | n=229 |
| Rather than an outright banning: if dog/pet/animal is deemed healthy through following procedures/regulations/requirements at border then they should be allowed entry into Canada (testing, vetted, documented...) | 36% |
| Exemptions should be made for rescues/adoption agencies that reputable and follow proper procedures | 26% |
| Mistrust of government (ineffective track record handling matters, mistrust of motives/agenda/tax grab, government tries to control people with over regulation...) | 15% |
| Should be allowed into Canada if coming from a reputable dealer/breeder/supplier, most follow proper procedural requirements | 12% |
| Disproportional response, heavy handed, overreacting | 7% |
| Vaccination required/documented, enforced vaccination | 6% |
| Rabies is not a big problem here/minimal risk, current import system/regulations are working | 6% |
| Other ways to handle the problem (unspecified) | 4% |
| It will negatively impact the welfare of dogs in other countries | 3% |
| Most owners are responsible without incident | 2% |
| We already have rabies here, dogs can catch rabies here | 2% |
| Myself/someone I know imported pet and they were fine/health | 1% |
| Would need more information to understand risk(s) | 1% |
| Some exemptions should be made (unspecified) | 1% |
| Nefarious actors will always find another way | 1% |
| Other | 1% |
| Don't know/No response | 6% |
All respondents were also asked how important they think it is that the Government of Canada prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases that are not currently in Canada. Results reveal that the vast majority of Canadians (88%) assign high importance to this issue, and very few (3%) view this as being of little importance.
Q33. How important do you think it is that the Government of Canada prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases that are not currently in Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all important, 7 means very important, and 4 means somewhat important.
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "How important do you think it is that the Government of Canada prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases that are not currently in Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all important, 7 means very important, and 4 means somewhat important."
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Results are more mixed in terms of belief in the government's ability to actually prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases into Canada. Only 4 in 10 (42%) express confidence in the government's ability to prevent the entry of serious animal diseases into Canada, and almost 3 in 10 (27%) express little confidence in the government's ability to do this.
Q34. How confident are you in the government's ability to prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases that are not currently in Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all confident, 7 means very confident, and 4 means somewhat confident.
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "How confident are you in the government's ability to prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases that are not currently in Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all confident, 7 means very confident, and 4 means somewhat confident."
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Those who expressed little confidence in the government's ability to prevent serious/infectious animal diseases from entering Canada were asked why they felt this way. A general lack of trust in the effectiveness of government (36%), and government's inability to control the border/prevent diseases from entering the country (19%) were mentioned most often.
| Why do you say that? [Open ended] | Total |
|---|---|
| Response | n=538 |
| Lack of trust in effectiveness of government (corrupt/biased, uninformed/misinformed, incompetent/incapable, only interested in own agenda/public perception, lack of accountability/responsibility...) | 36% |
| Proved to be ineffective controlling borders in the past (COVID, guns, passports, invasive species, air travel...) | 19% |
| Impossible to control it all (cannot be 100%, something/disease will always get through, cannot screen everything, nature finds a way, unknown pathogens/lack of effective tests, large/shared border control are difficult...) | 12% |
| People illegally import/find a way around the regulations/requirements | 7% |
| The regulations/requirements are/aren't enforced | 6% |
| Lack of resources/human resources, lack of funding to implement or be effective | 5% |
| We have more important problems, cannot see this as a priority, not a large enough threat | 2% |
| The regulations/requirements are/aren't strong enough | 1% |
| Government cannot handle this issue solely; need consultants/experts/third party to implement and control, do not have the expertise to deal with it | 1% |
| Outright ban will not be effective | 1% |
| Agree with total ban | 1% |
| Other | 1% |
| Don't know/No response | 18% |
All respondents were asked if they were aware that the CFIA's website has information for bringing animals/pets into Canada. Three quarters of respondents (73%) indicated they were unaware of the website. 1 in 5 (22%) indicated they were aware of the site but have never used it, and only 5% have used the website.
Q36. Are you aware that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) website has information, including import requirements, for bringing various types of animals/pets into Canada?
Base: n=2,076
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "Are you aware that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) website has information, including import requirements, for bringing various types of animals/pets into Canada?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Those who have used the CFIA website were asked to rate the usefulness of the site in helping find information about the requirements for importing animals/pets. The majority of these respondents (73%) indicated they found the site to be helpful, and only 14% thought the site was of little help in finding information about importing pets into Canada.
Q37. In your experience, how helpful was CFIA's website in terms of finding information about the requirements for importing animals/pets? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not helpful at all, 7 means very helpful and informative, and 4 means neither.
Base: n=152
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to four statements.
Respondents were asked: "In your experience, how helpful was CFIA's website in terms of finding information about the requirements for importing animals/pets? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not helpful at all, 7 means very helpful and informative, and 4 means neither."
Respondents selected:
Base: n=152
All respondents were asked if they had seen, read, or heard any Government of Canada advertising about adopting or purchasing a pet. The vast majority of respondents indicated they had not been exposed to this advertising, and only 4% indicated they had.
Q38. Have you seen, read or heard any Government of Canada advertising about adopting or purchasing a pet?
Base: n=2,076
This pie chart shows the percentage of results for responses to one question across three categories: yes, no, and don’t know.
Respondents were asked: "Have you seen, read or heard any Government of Canada advertising about adopting or purchasing a pet?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=2,076
Among those who indicated they had seen Government of Canada advertising about adopting or purchasing a pet, most indicated they had seen the ads on television (38%), or Facebook (30%). About 1 in 4 said they saw these ads on a Government website (24%), or in newspapers (23%).
Q39. Where have you seen, read or heard about these ads?
Base: n=124
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to eleven statements.
Respondents were asked: "Where have you seen, read or heard about these ads?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=124
When asked what they remember about the ads, restrictions in adopting pets from certain countries/changes to adoption rules were mentioned most often (27%). About 1 in 10 mentioned taglines from the advertising: ask questions when adopting a pet from outside the country (9%), and don't adopt a serious disease (7%).
Q40. What do you remember about these ads? [Open ended]
Base: n=124
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to nine statements.
Respondents were asked: "What do you remember about these ads?" [Open ended]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=124
The majority of respondents who saw the ads indicated that they did not take action as a result of seeing the ads (87%). About 1 in 8 (13%) said they did take action as a result of the advertising.
Q41. Did you do anything as a result of seeing this advertising?
Base: n=124
This pie chart shows the percentage of results for responses to one question across two statements: yes and no.
Respondents were asked: "Did you do anything as a result of seeing this advertising?"
Respondents selected:
Base: n=124
Among those who said they took action as a result of the ads, most indicated they shared the information with someone else, or looked online for more information.
Q42. Which of the following actions did you take? [Select all that apply]
Base: n=23
This chart of single bars shows the percentage of results for responses to eight statements.
Respondents were asked: "Which of the following actions did you take?" [Select all that apply]
Respondents selected:
Base: n=23
All respondents who said they saw the advertising were asked for their views on the advertising. Results are generally positive, with 8 in 10 of these respondents indicating the ads talk about an important topic (81%), and 7 in 10 agreeing that the ads provided new information, and caught their attention (69% each).
Q43a-c. Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statements about these ads using a 7-point scale where 1 means strongly disagree, 7 means strongly agree, and 4 means neither.
Base: n=124
This stacked chart shows the percentage of results for responses to three statements across four categories: DK/NR, disagree, neither, and agree.
Respondents were asked: "Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statements about these ads using a 7-point scale where 1 means strongly disagree, 7 means strongly agree, and 4 means neither."
Respondents selected:
Base: n=124
The following are results gathered from the 5 focus group participants and 10 interview participants. It should be noted that qualitative research is designed to reveal a rich range of opinions and interpretations rather than to measure what percentage of the target population holds a given opinion. These results cannot be used to estimate the numeric proportion or number of individuals in the population who hold a particular opinion because they are not statistically projectable. In order to avoid portraying these results as generalizable to the population, terms such as "a few," "some" and "most" are used to broadly indicate views rather than using specific percentages. It is not intended to quantify the findings.
Due to the sample size, the special recruitment methods used, and the study objectives themselves, it is clearly understood that the work under discussion is exploratory in nature. The findings are not, nor were they intended to be, projectable to a larger population.
Specifically, it is inappropriate to suggest or to infer that few (or many) real-world users would behave in one way simply because few (or many) participants behaved in this way during the sessions. This kind of projection is strictly the prerogative of quantitative research.
It should also be understood that the information provided by participants is subjective in nature and based on their own understanding, recollection and perceptions. In particular, comments regarding requirements in the area of importation of animals or diseases of concern, in Canada or other countries cannot be taken as "fact" and have not been validated by the CFA with regards to accuracy.
Virtually all focus group participants agreed that where a dog is acquired from is a significant consideration. Some spoke of getting a dog from their own local community, because there are many dogs in local shelters that are in need of a home. Several argued that there is no need to bring dogs from outside of Canada for this reason.
There are enough dogs in Canada, unless you are looking for a very specific breed. A lot of shelter dogs and reserves and off the street. They are damaged and hard to re-habilitate so it can become a problem.
We have a lot of pets in Canada to be adopted at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) etc, and that would be my first choice. My second choice would be a known breeder in Canada if they have a good reputation and if I know someone who had gone with them before with good success. I would not import a dog into Canada. I think there is a lot of risk associated with that.
Some spoke of the importance of knowing about the dog's health and learning as much as possible about the dog's history in order to be sure of their health. Others talked about the benefits of having a dog's health thoroughly checked and certified.
You should know the history of the animal you are getting, whether it's a foster or rescue or from breeder or wherever. You need the age and medical history, social aspects. The more you know about the pet you are bringing into your home, the better.
Are they an ethical breeder using human conditions? You also want a full medical history to be sure you are not introducing diseases to local populations or your home.
Some described their preference for going to a breeder in order to acquire a purebred dog, with certain traits or characteristics, and because they would be able to ask questions and receive detailed paperwork and history about the dog (for example, lineage, health, potential issues). A few said it is important to determine whether the dog would be a good match in terms of temperament and behaviour for a household with children.
We were dealing with a breeder we knew personally. We knew of 5 generations of dogs in the family and that there were no eye issues, heart issues, hip issues and so on.
[We] Went to someone who we knew and trusted (how they handled breeding). [They are] a good breeder, with reputation. We were very concerned about conditions, home and health of the dog.
It's important to know if the pet will get along with children. If we didn't have any children, we probably would have adopted a dog from a rescue.
We imported the first dog from the Netherlands when we were there and we knew we could trust them around children, which was big for us at the time. That's important and you don't know that from a rescue dog.
Some expressed concerns about acquiring a dog as a rescue from another country, believing they would not have sufficient information about the dog's history in terms of health, but in particular about how they were raised and any resulting behavioural or socialization issues.
[Speaking about a rescue from Mexico] It's a nice dog but it's taken a while to get straightened out. It was fearful and on guard, and it doesn't like lots of things. You had to be careful around him.
[Rescue is a ...] Good dog now but it was very fearful at first. It took the dog 2.5 years to become "normal".
For this reason, a few said that they look for dogs who are being fostered so that they can ask questions if the dog is a rescue, or that they want the opportunity to foster a dog themselves before they make a decision.
We are trying fostering so we can get to know the organization and how they operate and their approach such as the conditions, how they are treated, what kinds of places are they coming from, what kind of health assessments do they do.
I always look for one that is being fostered so that they can tell you about the dog and their personality. You are bringing the dog into a home with other animals and they have to be ok coming into your home (for example, get along with other pets).
Several participants emphasized the need to do research on this topic before making a decision.
There are good sources out there to give good information on [acquiring a dog from another country]. Research needs to be done.
The best [source] for me is the vet. I have a relationship with them and they know of dogs that are healthy or not, so I trust them.
Some talked about researching a breed of dog and their traits. Others talked about the organization including the reputation, standards and living conditions of the breeder. A few said that they would only acquire a dog from an organization they feel they can trust such as the SPCA, or a breeder they have known from previous experience.
You should not just assume that a breeder is a good breeder just because they are registered.
We researched many different breeders because we needed to find a dog that wouldn't trigger any allergies. We took our time – it took us more than a year to get the breed we wanted.
I would go in-person and walk and interact with them to see their characteristics. If from a breeder I would research the breed and their needs, but also the health issues they are known for.
When thinking about acquiring a dog from outside of Canada, interview participants were unanimous in their assertion that the primary concern is the health of the dog, based on proof of vaccination and veterinarian health examinations. Dogs coming from rescue organizations should be checked thoroughly, according to several participants.
[Research] the provenance of that dog, and its background and history, where possible. Also, they should be thinking about the vaccination status of the animal, since many diseases can be prevented. There are also many parasitic treatments that work for various parasites that have a high risk of coming into Canada. (Veterinarian)
Investigation of the reputation of the breeder along with the housing conditions was described as important for both rescue organizations and breeders. In the case of a breeder, asking about the health of the parents was also noted.
You have to be looking closely at the reputation and credibility of the importer, looking for references and previous clients to get a sense of the conditions and ethical treatment of the dogs. (Breeder)
I don't want to see money (the cost to purchase a pet) going to an organization with poor practices and conditions, such as puppy mills and rescue organizations that are only driven by the money. [There should be] more certification of what constitutes a reputable "rescue organization". Breeders are also not all the same and do not all do the same things in terms of disease and genetic testing. (Veterinarian)
If the source is not reputable, there can be an indescribable number of defects in the dog from the breeding that was done. People can [unknowingly] obtain a dog with many issues, with huge cost implications. Just because they have papers doesn't mean that they have been bred and raised in a good environment. (Veterinarian)
A few said that research should also be done on both the temperament and health-related risks associated with specific breeds.
There are characteristics and issues [of different breeds] you need to be sure you understand. You need to talk to people who breed and use those breeds, and are familiar with them, and not be pulled by your heart strings. (Breeder)
You need to research health risks for different breeds (for example, flat faced dogs that can't breathe or have long backs and vertebrae that can't support them). If you don't research in advance, then you don't know. (Veterinarian)
I would like to see owners and potential owners researching the breed of dog that will suit their lifestyle and be honest about their ability to care for the pet in terms of time, energy, cost. (Veterinarian)
Participants were divided on whether potential dog owners consider the country of origin. Two breeders believe that many potential dog owners will ask a lot of questions. Several others said that there is an emotional appeal in rescuing a dog from another country, although many may not be making fully informed decisions. The general impression among interview participants is that breeders will be more concerned and educated in this decision than other consumers.
90% will do their due diligence by asking us for background and health certificates, and references. They don't care though about whether the dog is born elsewhere or if the parent is born elsewhere. (Breeder)
They don't care. They are happy to give a dog a home and a chance to live in a first world country. (Animal welfare)
Breeders will care more because they are doing this as a business, and they are far more informed. (Breeder)
Risk of disease was noted frequently by participants, some of whom feel it is not worth the risk to bring dogs from outside the country, particularly from countries where the likelihood is higher that they will not have been well cared for. Some said that bringing dogs into the country must involve thorough health checks and potentially quarantine measures to ensure they are healthy before being released.
I would never adopt a pet from outside Canada because of the potential for sickness or something else. You don't necessarily know what kind of animal you're getting.
It's a nice idea, but there are concerns that the animal is treated well or healthy, which we may take for granted here in Canada.
There are definitely concerns when getting a dog from outside the country, with disease, rabies, parvo and what not. They definitely need to be screened when coming into the country.
Another area of concern for some relates to behavioural issues, with a few expressing concerns around children in particular. Generally, a number of participants said that there are more unknowns in terms of both health and behavioural problems when rescuing a dog from another country.
The dog was very aggressive with other dogs and hard to handle. There was one dog fight where my husband got a bite and had to receive [a] tetanus [shot]. I have grandkids and couldn't risk this, so I gave the dog back [to the rescue agency].
There is something to be said for going to local shelter where you can meet the pet and interact to see how you get along and feel. There are more unknowns if getting animal from outside of the country.
Some people have gone through the hoops and paid a high price and ended up with some pretty hefty vet bills, and in other cases it worked out great. It's a roll of the dice and you don't know as much as you would in our own backyard.
As previously described, many participants believe that there is sufficient supply here in Canada to obtain a dog, through shelters and breeders, without going to other countries. One or two also talked about rescuing dogs in northern Canada.
I think there are enough animals in Canada already. We should approach rescues and breeders here before bringing in more animals from overseas.
There are a lot of dogs after the pandemic that are looking for homes, so there's lots of supply here. You can simply go through a reputable shelter here (like Humane Society) and know something about what they do to check out dogs.
A few expressed concerns about the conditions of the transportation, particularly when coming from overseas. A few said that they feel it is acceptable to transport dogs from the United States, but that flying them in is more complicated, costly and carries greater risks for the dog. Being able to travel to visit the breeder or rescue organization to meet with the organization, tour the facility and see the conditions in which the dogs are housed was noted by a few to be important.
It could get complicated depending on the country. I'd say it's okay from the US, but overseas is another question. There could be unexpected costs associated with importing an animal.
I don't think it's worth bringing in an animal from abroad, especially if you're flying them in. You're risking the animal's health and all that.
I'd be worried about the travel and conditions for the dog. What would that do to a dog (confinement, etc.)
You have to go to the breeder and see how the dog was raised and meet the mother or parents and see the health of the dogs and how they were treated.
Several participants acknowledge the need of dogs in other countries and value of being able to assist. Some spoke of the balancing of helping other dogs, while also having concerns for the protection of dogs in Canada. There is a benefit to being able to interact with a reputable rescue organization that carries out detailed health checks and fosters dogs in order to take the time to assess health and behavioural issues prior to adoption.
I do have concerns because of disease, but I also know from a lot of travelling that there are animals in desperate need in other countries. It's a hard one.
The dog has to be vetted by a reputable or accredited rescue organization that does the due diligence. I'm more concerned about the groups that bring in a truck load of dogs from Asia that they've rescued from a meat market. There's no control there about how [they are] bred or health issues or temperament.
Two participants with experience with international rescue agencies described these processes.
There are a number of rescue agencies (in Spain and the Middle East) that collect the (hunting) dogs and they fundraise here. They have facilities and vet care for them [in the country of origin]. They do assessments and work with them on behavioural issues. They are stable groups with [ a] stable [group of] employees and you can see videos of the dogs. They want to make sure the dog is good with other pets and kids, and there is a health certificate with all things that were checked and vaccines.
[The dogs] are fostered to evaluate the personality of the dogs. Some have specific issues so [they] have to assess these things and put controls in place to be sure the owner will be a good match and understands the issues and controls that are needed.
When participants were asked about their reactions or concerns on hearing about a neighbour adopting a dog from another country, several expressed concerns about risk of disease, while others talked about fear, aggression and other behavioural issues, including risk to children.
For me, there would be a certain note of caution around letting the kids out there with the dogs until we knew more and were sure. I'd do more research on my own to have questions to ask the owner
If you are dead set on bringing a dog from another country, I think it's pay to play. You have to be responsible for all of the cost of rigorous health testing and quarantines and whatever needs to be done to be sure the animal is ok to be here.
Participants who expressed concerns about the risk of disease or behavioural issues were asked about their response to arguments made by those who support the importation of dogs because of the conditions and extensive need in other countries. Some maintained that safety and risk mitigation in Canada must be the priority. Others argued that there is a similar situation with regard to the volume of dogs that need to be placed in a home here in Canada.
It's not enough of an argument to say we have a big heart and that we want to do something (to help). There still needs to be safeguards for health and safety at the same time.
Pets are already being returned and shelters are full. We have enough to focus on in our own country to be taking on others' responsibilities. Maybe once we take care of our own backyard and have everything under control then we can start looking elsewhere, but right now we have a lot of problems to take care of.
A few participants suggested that Canada could assist other countries to deal with these issues, without bringing dogs into this country.
I also think we should be supporting other countries with their own outreach and awareness, where they might not have the ability and resources to raise and maintain awareness there (for example, what the risks are) to prevent the risk issues down the road.
[We could] send money or people for a spay and neuter program in those countries. We feel bad for them, but part of the problem is that they are being born.
We should be doing international outreach to countries that do not have the ability to fully fund their awareness of the issues to try to help them [better understand the issues].
When asked about their thoughts on dogs coming from outside of Canada, many interview participants expressed strong concern about introducing diseases that are not endemic to Canada. A few also talked about considerations for the conditions of the transportation.
The risk varies tremendously based on where the animal comes from. Every country has different risk when it comes to disease and different import/export requirements. (Veterinarian)
[...] taking into consideration the zoonotic diseases that may also have an impact on the Canadian populations of not only dogs, but on agriculture and overall health of animals here. (Breeder)
When it comes to importing, there are breeds that have health issues because they were not adequately bred. Then you add inhumane transport conditions on top of it, which adds stress and can compromise them in terms of health. (Veterinarian)
Many participants suggested that the decision to rescue a dog from another country can be an emotional one, which may cloud a consumer's judgment. A few said that they support the importation of dogs for the purposes of breeding programs designed to improve bloodlines, but not the rescue of dogs when there are many dogs in Canada that also need a home.
I have trouble with the concept of purchasing non-purebred dogs from outside the country. I know there can be a knee jerk reaction about saving dogs in need, but go to our own pound where there are hundreds of dogs that need a home, love and care. By bringing these dogs from elsewhere that no one knows about in terms of background, they get here and people can't handle them, so they are surrendered to the local shelter anyway, which burdens the system here. (Breeder)
[...] anyone with livestock will have animals quarantined in barn and checked so that all of the biosecurity measures had been duly met. Pet owners many not be as well informed about the potential dangers around letting a dog you are not 100% sure of interact with the other pets in your neighbourhood, and town. (Breeder)
On the other hand, several acknowledged that there are dogs in other countries living in poor conditions, with little prospects without the assistance of countries like Canada to take them in.
It's a double-edged sword. There are dogs here [in Canada]. On the other hand, if we don't do anything about the dogs overseas, they have no prospects whatsoever. (Animal welfare)
They can be in very rough shape when they come to Canada. They were often on the street and neglected terribly. (Animal welfare)
I can't believe that any reputable rescue or dog club would not insist on [health checks], because we definitely do not want to introduce dog rabies into the population, since it is almost always fatal. But at the same time, I feel for the animals that need rescue, whether from a worn-torn country like Ukraine or from the meat market in Asia. (Animal welfare)
Several participants described some specific examples of situations they have personally encountered of dogs imported from another country, including the introduction of foreign diseases, parasites and behavioural issues.
There is one rescue in the [region of Canada] that often bring in dogs coming from overseas. We would consistently see foreign disease in those dogs. We were not impressed that this was happening; with testing that missed these diseases, or however it was happening, bringing the risk of infecting our dogs, and humans. (Veterinarian)
The problem is not just health, but there are common behaviour issues with (adult) street dogs. The potential owner wants to rescue them but has not idea that typically this will be a terrified dog that is not conditioned to living in a house or a with a family. They are not socialized, and are now having to become a house dog. Sometimes it works, but it's buyer beware because you don't know. (Veterinarian)
Very few participants have had personal experience with the requirements and procedures for bringing a dog into Canada. One acquired a puppy from a breeder in the United States. Two travelled with their dog into the Unites States and back into Canada, and one is involved in a greyhound rescue organization that typically brings dogs from the Unites States. In each case, no issues were experienced and they found the information they obtained to be straightforward and easy to follow.
We bring them [greyhound rescues] from the States and have to follow all of the regulations and it's been fine. Our biggest problem is [... ] the border guards [.....] want the GST on whatever we sell the dogs for, but we explain that we don't sell the dogs.
We've been through the States with dogs in the past. You show your rabies certificate at the border and that's good enough and all you need. It is trying to convince the border guards who don't believe you (when you tell them the low price you paid).
One person had experience bringing dogs from overseas, although they relied on a rescue agency to physically bring each dog into Canada, through the use of "flight buddies" who accompany the dogs on their flight into Canada.
The dogs are flown in from overseas come in with flight buddies, accompanying them as luggage, rather than flying in cargo, and you meet them at the airport with the Canadian agency rep to pick up your dog.
Only a few participants had been to the CFIA website to look for information about the requirements in bringing a dog into Canada. Each person said they were able to get the information they needed.
I went to the CFIA website to get all of my information. I didn't see the need to go to any other source for information since they are the authority you have to go through to bring a dog into Canada.
I checked out the requirements on the CFIA website and then went to the rescue agency in Qatar asking if they would give me certificates proving certain things and they said absolutely. They said they send dogs to Canada and they have also researched the CFIA website to make sure they were able to cover all requirements.
(As someone involved in rescue of dogs from the US) I've had to go to the site many times. The site is very straightforward and once you've gone through it once it's all you need.
Only some participants had heard about rabies recently and only one or two heard about the canine variant. These participants were concerned about human cases of rabies, that there was no cure, and that it is highly transmissible between wild and domestic animals.
I just had a conversation with a co-worker about rabies. That there's no cure.
I know people around the world still die from it every year, but I don't know which countries they live in.
Only thing that comes to mind that there was a human case in the US that got it and didn't get treated.
Rabies is still present in the US and highly contagious between wild animals and domestic animals. There is a rigorous vaccination program for pets and farm animals.
Several recalled past federal or provincial government efforts to disburse rabies vaccination packets in the wild to control the spread of the disease.
I've heard of planes dropping food pellets containing the rabies vaccine into the wild to control the spread of the disease.
Also, something I heard recently was about a vaccine packet that was dropped in the forest in [province] to do with rabies vaccine.
A few participants perceive that rabies is very rare or does not exist in Canada and therefore is not a concern, or that other diseases are of greater concern.
I was bitten severely by a foster a few months back, went to the hospital and was treated with antibiotics. I asked about exposure to rabies and the doctor said that it was so uncommon that there was no point in giving me the rabies shots. So, while rabies is a terrifying disease, I personally have very little fear about it in this part of the world.
We have a far greater problem with ticks than with rabies here in Canada. We have wild animals (coyotes, foxes, deer) around our 40-acre property all the time but they don't come near with the dog around, so I'm not worried about it.
Only a few participants felt that they had heard about the recent measures to prevent dog rabies from entering Canada, and indicated some knowledge of the measure, such as dogs being stopped at the border or banned when entering from identified countries, although not always reporting complete or accurate details of the measure.
That's where they are stopping the dogs at the border. They put a stop to any importing of dogs from any country at the border to try and stop rabies from entering the country.
I heard about dogs from some countries being banned and there was a fair bit of outcry about that.
Many focus group participants said they fully support the recent move to prohibit commercial dogs coming from countries at high risk for dog rabies. This was typically shaped by concerns for the introduction and spread of disease in Canada.
I think it safeguards breeders and other people working in the pet industry from potential exposure to the diseases.
I'm in favour of the decision, especially if we don't know the incubation period of the disease. It's important to have strict measures in place if this is the case.
As soon as there's a risk, we should close the door immediately. It isn't essential, and if it isn't responding to a need, I don't see the point in bringing in more animals [from outside of the country].
If you can delay it for a few years until there is a specific vaccine for dog rabies, that is readily available and part of your maintenance routine with a dog, then let's keep it out.
Some participants said that they support the measures, however, their response suggests that they may prefer an alternative to an outright prohibition. These participants would support a quarantine similar to that implemented in other countries, or allowing entry after meeting specific requirements, although some others felt that a long quarantine is not a humane solution for dogs.
Any dog coming in should be quarantined for a period of time. That is in place in Australia (6 weeks), but I don't know if we have something like that here in Canada. We definitely need to be cautious because you don't know what kind of diseases we could be bringing in. and it could be communicable and needs to be controlled.
I think rules and regulations around bringing personal pet dogs into Canada should be relatively strict, but they should be allowed into the country.
Maybe they could start screening for whether it's been at least 6 months since the dog was vaccinated before allowing one to enter the country.
Some participants support the measures, although they would prefer to see these measures extended to all countries, rather than only high-risk countries since the level of risk may be fluid over time. As a few articulated, there may still be some risk of rabies coming from lower risk countries. Some also questioned the exclusion of personal pet dogs from the prohibition, as they perceive this leaves an element of risk in the measure.
Just because a dog is coming from a lower risk country that doesn't mean no risk, and maybe they are lax about letting dogs in from higher risk countries, so you don't really know. Either you do it or you don't, but this seems like a halfway measure to me. It [doesn't go] far enough.
I also [question why] just commercial dogs are prohibited. Why not personal pets as well? There could be confusion down the road between personal and commercial.
If they are going to do it they need to do it properly. It should be for all dogs, not just commercial dogs. And, it should be for all countries, not just high-risk countries.
With regard to extending the measures to include personal pet dogs, some participants disagreed, seeing the risk as much lower with personal pets, where it is more likely that there is a comprehensive history of vaccination and health exams, as well as a lower likelihood of exposure to a large numbers of dogs in close contact while in the foreign country.
I would say not for personal pets. It's a risk assessment. How likely is it that during a trip (a Canadian dog) is exposed to canine rabies, whereas for commercial dogs they've been raised in closer quarters, so chances of an outbreak are a lot higher.
If you are taking your dog on vacation then it should not apply but if you are acquiring a dog from another country then yes it should be quarantined.
A few participants said that they recognize the need for measures to screen dogs and reduce the risk of introducing disease, however, they do not see a prohibition as the appropriate approach to take.
There has to be protections, but there are ways other than strict prohibition. I don't see anything wrong with foreign adoptions being told by domestic authorities if you want to bring in the dog you have to follow health procedures to make sure they are safe, such as quarantine before you can release them into the Canadian population of dogs.
I think restrictions should be on a case-by-case basis depending on where the dog comes from rather than implementing a blanket solution.
A few emphasized the need for education efforts to inform the public, and in particular dog-owners and prospective dog-owners of the issues and considerations with regard to health risk when bringing a dog from outside the country.
You need an education campaign to tell the public that rabies is a problem or becoming a bigger problem here. You need to raise awareness.
A few also said that they have many questions about the details of how the measures are implemented, monitored and assessed over time. These fortify the need for communications with the public from CFIA about the measures that are in place, suggesting that anyone interested in details can find more information on the website.
What caused this explosion of rabies in other countries. How are we scanning this and what decides which countries are on the list and which are not? What does the test look like for this and who is deciding this? Is there enough support at the border to do this?
You want it to make sense in the implementation as well. For example, [how decisions are made regarding] countries that need to be added or removed from the list so that it's not [having unintended] negative impacts. Evaluate regularly to make sure the measures are not having an unintended impact.
Most interview participants feel that breeders and animal welfare/rescue organizations are more likely to consider the risk of animal diseases than individual dog owners. A breeding operation, for example, would be sensitive to the risk of spreading the disease to their other animals, and typically work to ensure the health of their animals as part of their business and reputation. These participants perceive that individual dog owners would be less aware of potential disease risks or would rely on breeders, rescues, or animal shelters to take measures to prevent disease before the ownership transfers to individuals. A few participants alluded to the emotional decision that individuals make when seeking to bring a pet into Canada, which may cloud judgement and supersede any consideration of the health history or disease risk.
[...] Breeders have different considerations. They are [I believe] certified and know what they are doing. Also, if they are bringing a dog into the country then they don't have much choice! They have to meet the regulations [or be denied entry]. A breeder is more aware of the issues than the average pet owner. (Breeder)
Any reputable person who imports into Canada would [consider the risk for disease] for sure. They wouldn't have a business if they were known to have brought in animals that had health issues that were harmful to other animals or people. (Animal welfare)
I don't think people care. They just want help by giving a dog a home. (Animal welfare)
Although all veterinarians interviewed were familiar with canine variant rabies or dog rabies, only some other interview participants are aware. One veterinarian said that their clinic has seen two cases of rabies in dogs in the past year, which they believe included one coming from outside of Canada. One breeder said that a recent instance of rabies in bats in the community had led to concern for transmission to their domestic animals.
We have seen 2 cases of rabies in dogs that came through in the last year. That in itself is disturbing. One of the dogs had come from outside of Canada, they don't realize that rabies is fatal and that people die around the world all the time. (Veterinarian)
I haven't heard of a variant... have heard of rabies in dogs but there are hardly any around here. Rabies is a rare disease these days because of inoculation. (Animal welfare)
Most interview participants are aware of the measure implemented in September 2022, to prohibit the importation of commercial dogs into Canada from countries at high-risk for dog rabies. Some interview participants support the measures, citing reasons such as helping to prevent the entry of dog rabies. However, other interview participants feel that this measure is not necessary as long as there are certificates of health or vaccine records available.
I support it. They are trying to prevent disease from entering into Canada, particularly those that we don't have or have very little of. (Veterinarian)
I think it's justified for sure. But is there a loophole [...] that could still result in risk? (Breeder)
I don't see the rationale behind that. For years dogs have come into Canada, so why now? What brought this about? Has there been a big uptick in canine rabies elsewhere that Canada is reacting to? (Breeder)
I don't think it's something we want to shut down completely. There's lot of benefits, particularly in terms of breed programs and keeping certain breeds going and the establishment of local breeders rather than having to continuously going to other countries. It just has to be done in a manner that addresses some of the risk of importing diseases, that may otherwise become imported into Canada that are not currently here. (Veterinarian)
A few perceive that the measure was not implemented in consultation with industry, and that there would have been a benefit to consultations when developing the measure.
One problem when reading about the CFIA measures was that they didn't do a lot of consultation with the industry before putting them into place, which is a common problem with government introducing programs. I'm not sure why you wouldn't consult with those who are directly involved and know the topic. (Animal welfare)
Some interview participants feel that it is ineffective to apply the measures to only commercial dogs when other personal dogs, or dogs falsely presented as personal dogs, may end up entering the country with rabies. On the other hand, a few feel that if a personal pet was raised in Canada, fully vaccinated, and brought with the owner to another country for a short period of time, this dog should be exempt from the measure. Many said they would be comfortable with personal dogs entering from a high-risk country as long as there was documentation to support vaccination and health history. A few further stipulated that the length of time of ownership, as well as the vaccination history, should exceed the maximum incubation period for rabies.
I would need to know a little bit more. The definition of commercial is a bit suspect, especially the show dog, who is personal pet. (Animal welfare)
It's not realistic to ban pets if someone took their dog somewhere and brought them back. But you should have to show some vaccine certificate and length of ownership. It can't get too complex either, realistically. We can't say to people, no you can't bring your pets. But, when it comes to personal pets coming from the high-risk countries, there should be some extra requirements for paperwork to be shown. (Veterinarian)
You should be allowed to bring the dog if you have all the paperwork and protocols in place to ensure health. (Animal welfare)
Some interview participants support the implementation of a quarantine for pets coming into Canada, particularly from countries at high-risk for dog rabies. This could help to allow personal pets to safely enter the country in situations with less known health history a few stipulated. These participants do not feel that public funding should be used for quarantine costs, but rather, be an expense that the breeder, rescue organization or owner should be responsible for and should be considered when bringing in dogs from other countries.
Quarantine might be better than the ban. Although, it's costly and where will they be quarantined. If these rescue groups bring in large loads of dogs then it's very costly and you need large facilities. (Breeder)
To say government should pay isn't always fair, and I recognize that some people will be opposed to public funds going towards that. The cost benefit would have to be looked at and maybe not many would see the benefit particularly when we have a lot of dogs who need homes here. (Animal welfare)
A few interview participants said that they are more concerned about other more prevalent diseases such as kennel cough or parvovirus than dog rabies. Notably, each of the 4 veterinarians suggested that other infectious diseases need to be considered (beyond just rabies), and more rigorous testing be done.[5]
We have had in [region], last summer, quite a serious problem with a different strain of parvo[virus]. It was suspected to have been brought in from a rescue. A lot of dogs not responding to the usual treatments. The year before, there was a problem with kennel cough that was not responding to the usual treatments, and they suspected it was brought in by a rescue. (Breeder)
I don't understand why the heavy focus that CFIA had on rabies where there are more significant diseases to worry about like brucellosis or TB because both of those impact Canadian livestock considerably and Canada right now is brucellosis-free and they are not testing to clear the dogs for either of those other 2. (Breeder)
Ideally, the infectious disease testing for bringing animals in would more stringent, [perhaps] that 2 negative tests for heartworm are performed a month apart or a more detailed test and not just a snap test. It depends on the disease of course. Same with parasites – more testing. (Veterinarian)
There should be health certifications that veterinarians on the export side would have to sign to attest to the health of the animal and then the importer needs to have this paperwork signed and in order before they will accept the animal, with added follow up requirements of checks within 30 days of entry. They [should] both have some responsibility and need to work together. (Veterinarian)
All kinds of diseases and problems are being imported, putting our other pets at risk. The infectious diseases are a concern including diseases from different parts of the world that are not here in Canada, such as leishmaniasis. There have been some other diseases that have been imported such as ticks that are not endemic to Canada. There was a mini outbreak of canine influenza recently in Ontario, which was caught and did not spread very far. But, it falls on the shoulders of the GPs to see these things and recognize it before it starts something super contagious which would be a huge problem. Parasites from street dogs in southern countries is another big issue, with many dogs testing negative for heartworm but testing positive a month after they've been here. I don't think we are testing for any of these things as far as I know. As far as I know there has not been a case of rabies that has been imported into [province]. In other countries, such as the United States [I believe] they have to have detailed testing and certifications before they arrive on their soil. There is a much stricter set of regulations for importing dogs, even for visiting pets. (Veterinarian)
Some interview participants believe that the federal government, in consultation with industry, has a role to play in helping to foster the health and safety of imported dogs and preventing the introduction and spread of disease in Canada. The CFIA has established the requirements for the entry of animals to Canada and can also be a single source for education, tools, and information for veterinarians, breeders, rescues and pet owners. These participants noted that there is no single association or private organization that can take on this leadership role in Canada. A few, however, feel that breeders and rescues can play a stronger role in educating the industry and dog owners, and direct individuals to where to find more information and factors to consider when bringing an animal to Canada.
There could be a role [for industry] but there are many breed and rescue organizations so there is no centralized organization to go through. [CFIA] could play a role in education though. Promoting understanding on what to look for in adopting a dog from abroad. Maybe they can promote information on CFIA requirements. (Veterinarian)
If there was a centralized source to go to that was vetted and comprehensive but easy and quick to use as a reference, that would be helpful. If you want GPs to get involved in some way in testing or informing then the steps need to be very clear (heartworm tests, outbreak of something). We need an easy government website to find the information we need, in a logic place and order with consistent information that is easy to find and use. (Veterinarian)
Interview participants were informed that currently, around the world, there are issues with illegal movements (or trade) of dogs, using fraudulent documentation. Most interview participants feel that, while this is a concern, it is very difficult to mitigate fraudulent paperwork. These participants cited documentation in different languages, and in various formats, as challenges in determining if the document is valid. Some interview participants expressed frustration that some individuals will always attempt fraudulent means to import an animal into Canada. Suggestions to help mitigate fraudulent document included the creation of standardized documentation necessary for entry to Canada, and requiring all dogs entering the country to be microchipped to confirm identify, with the same number present on all paperwork.
It's a real problem. I have actually seen paperwork for vaccinations for dogs that are clearly not for that dog (not the same age, the microchip didn't match, and so on), and I've seen a forged signature with someone else's name. (Veterinarian)
I don't know how easy it is to recognize any of these things in a wide variety of different languages. Unless you have to register with the government in some central collection, I don't know how you can control that. You put in the safeguards you can and hope that's enough. (Veterinarian)
Fraudulent paperwork is a real can of worms. The document is only as good as the paper it's written on because you can take any document and have the proper people sign it and then it comes with a dog that is not the dog that the paperwork was written for. Unless the microchip number is there and it's checked against the chip on the dog, you don't know. (Breeder)
Interview participants were also told that the government cannot restrict importers from presenting an animal for import at Canada's borders as importers can still attempt to present a non-compliant animal at the border or port of entry. Most interview participants feel that individuals presenting non-compliant animals should be denied entry to Canada, with many also supporting a ban on future attempts to enter Canada as well as a large fine as a deterrent. A few said that increasing oversight and creating a reputation of a country with strong enforcement at the border would serve as a deterrent from attempts to arrive at the border with non-compliant animals. A few were concerned about what would happen to the animals if the individual was turned away, noting potential implications for inhumane treatment of dogs turned away, and need for quarantine of those accepted.
That one is tricky as well because it becomes an animal welfare issue. If they are found and turned back, what happens to the animals? It may be better to be super strict and have a reputation of strict adherence and inspection, so that it dissuades importers from trying this. (Veterinarian)
That should be like anyone else bringing in any banned substance or products. Their identity should go on record and they should be refused entry and animals sent back, and possibly fined. (Breeder)
If they are non-compliant and trying to get away with something then that individual should be barred from coming into Canada in future. There can also be fines to be paid. There have to be legal ramifications if you break the law. That's no different from bringing in any other kind of contraband into the country. (Animal welfare)
Finally, interview participants were asked about organizations who independently claim to be "responsible, reputable, and legitimate" importers. Many of these organization establish that they operate under strict guidelines and therefore present a lower risk when importing commercial dogs from abroad, however, there is no governing body at the moment who would be able to oversee or govern such claims. Most of the interview participants believe that a method of identify reputable importers is a useful approach as it avoids the need for a complete prohibition, and allows some dogs to come into the country, even from higher risk countries.
Maybe registered breeders have to go through more stringent scrutiny to be allowed to import animals for breeding programs. These would take into consideration risk of illnesses/disease and also humane treatment to be able to import dogs. (Veterinarian)
In terms of roles for the industry, two breeders suggested that Canadian organizations currently acting as dog registries may be in a position to assist with the accreditation since this system is already in place for breeders to become registered, although their capacity is often strained. A few participants also suggested that Humane Societies in Canada may have a role to play in helping to identify reputable rescue organizations. One participant suggested that organizations that have earned the reputable status may also become involved in efforts to educate consumers about the risks and considerations and to look for this "reputable" status.
Theoretically, they would be going through their registry such as the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), or a livestock to register animals. They already have in place the established protocols and methods of tracking documents and so on. (Breeder)
On the rescue side, maybe the Humane Societies here could play a role in helping to regulate the international recue organizations when they come in. They have a vested interest in making sure that dogs coming in don't have disease and less likely to end up in their shelters. (Veterinarian)
Some interview participants emphasized the need for rigorous health protocols to be followed (vaccination certificates officially logged, a high standard of testing, healthy and humane transport and housing conditions). Any organizations accorded different rights should be required to prove that they follow these standards, including an initial inspection and periodic review or audit.
Having some type of accreditation once you've established that you follow health protocols, would be good. It could be reviewed in some type of annual audit that you have to renew in order to keep that status. (Veterinarian)
One or two suggested that this should be paid for through users-fees to the organizations since they are the beneficiaries of the status that would allow them to import dogs from high-risk countries. One participant also said that this status could potentially make it more efficient for them to import dogs once they had achieved the reputable status.
If rescues and animal welfare organizations want to do this [import dogs from high-risk countries] they should pay for it. [This is] no different than professional association groups who want self-regulation, who have to prove that they will put measures in place to ensure standards are being met by their members. They pay for the cost of establishing and upholding the standards including the training and inspections. (Animal welfare)
Focus group participants were shown a compilation of 5 ads used in previous international dog adoption campaigns. They were asked to provide feedback with regard to the clarity of the messaging, the extent to which the ads command attention including the appropriateness of the images used, specific elements which they felt required revision or improvement, and the overall ad that they preferred.
By and large, participants felt that the objectives of the ads are clear, although there were mixed reviews about how the messages are portrayed in terms of clarity. While some participants felt the ads are clear in conveying the message about risks and need to be informed when bringing dogs from other countries, others felt that the messages are too weak and not specific enough. For example, the caption "a picture doesn't tell the whole story", was viewed as too generic and vague on its own (for example, as used in one of the ads), it was seen as a good message to set the context for additional messaging featured in other ads.
I would mash all of the ads together. Add that the picture doesn't tell the whole story and that it kills 59,000 annually, along with the questions.
A few also said that the questions featured in one ad need to be more specific. For example, reference to "disease" was seen as non-specific and would be better replaced with rabies.
(The ad) needs more lead in text like "do you know where your dog came from" to lead it and set the stage or context for why the questions.
(They) need to convey the serious risk so that it grabs attention, and tell you that adorable dog could still be patient zero for a major and serious outbreak.
Some said that the call to action is either missing or not clearly laid out in the ads. If ultimately, the point of the ads is to ask people to seek more information, this should be more prominently featured in the ads. Some said that it should be more clearly spelled out and more directly connected with the key message.
The one about rabies kills 59,000 yearly is the one that would grab me the most, but if I don't have a call to action, to go to a website to get more information, then I don't really know what the point is.
Move "adopt responsibly" to top under the caption to give it context and tell the story.
(The ads) have to have a link of where to go for more information. I'm sure people need information resources like this to get all of the information they need. Where they can get more links to other resources as well. The caption needs to actually say – go to...for more information.
Many participants also said that the ads do not command attention in part because some of the messaging is not sufficiently clear or specific. For some, commanding attention would come from the provision of more detail or specificity. For others, the use of stronger images would be required.
These ads are not compelling. You can gloss over them quickly and it doesn't catch you at all.
If saw in the airport it wouldn't grab my attention. It needs more context. It would need to have something graphic to grab my attention.
There was a considerable difference of opinion about the best approach to the images featured in the ads. For some, healthy dogs seemed the most appropriate to garner attention. For some, however, the dogs in the images need to look more sickly or more clearly tied to rabies, such as an image of an angry dog. One person suggested an image of a dog having an examination by a veterinarian would point to concerns about health and disease in dogs.
(It would be better to) show a snarling dog, and associate it with angry or out of control animal to grab attention quickly.
I think the pictures are too cute. If they really want people to react, they should use more negative imagery to elicit a reaction and draw attention to the potential consequences. (Translated)
While many participants said they liked the approach of "Rabies kills 59,000 people a year" to drive home the point about the seriousness of the disease, some said that this was fear-mongering, and a more helpful or constructive approach would be more useful. Many said that the caption needs to add "worldwide" in order to accurately convey the statistic. One person suggested that the fact that there is no cure should be added to the caption in some way to explain how or why it is that so many people are killed each year.
This ad needs to be specific about where that is. It leaves you with the impression that this is in Canada since it's just above the Government of Canada logo.
It's trying to scare me and doesn't provide useful information because you don't know where or why.
The one about 59,000 deaths speaks to me the most, but they should focus more on the fact that if someone is bitten [by an infected dog], they could die because there's no cure. (Translated)
Related to the earlier point about making the call to action more prominent, a few participants said that they feel reference to the CFIA should also be made prominent, as the authority responsible for regulating dogs coming into Canada.
(The ads) need to increase awareness that it's CFIA. That's not an obvious government branch to be doing this and that they are responsible for vetting pets.
Important to tell people that the CFIA website will give you all of this information.
A few expressed concerns about the execution of the ads, such as the amount of text, size of font or the use of white on grey.
You can't put a lot of questions and text and white on a greyish background, it doesn't stand out, I didn't even see that. And the small writing, most people won't pay attention to the text.
Overall, more participants said that they liked the ads with the examples of questions, because it provides useful information about the types of questions to ask, provides some context for concerns, and emphasizes the importance of seeking information. A few participants, however, said that the questions need to provide more concrete detail on the topics to be looking for information on (for example, rabies, countries with high risk, need for vaccination).
I like the one with the questions. There's more information and what questions to ask. It's specific and helpful. But you need to be specific about rabies though (not just disease).
If you are looking for a dog from outside Canada having those messages and questions would be helpful to me so would grab my attention.
A few said that they did not like the ad with the caption "the picture doesn't tell the whole story", because it does not provide enough context and detail about the concern (for example, that the concern is risk of disease, or specific to rabies). A few also said that the message is not complete without a call to action, to visit the website for more information.
(It's) good to have these questions listed there but need at least some hint at answers so that it tells more of the story (for example, concerns/why, what looking for).
The ad says ask questions but the majority of people don't know what questions to ask, so having that is good information for those who needs it. There should be much more specificity, like some points about asking about what vaccinations your dog has had.
If I don't have a call to action, to go to a website to get more information, then I don't really know what the point is.
A few participants wondered how these ads would reach them, as individuals who do not have a pet, or who are not currently in the market for a dog. One person said that an ad that emphasized the risk to health would ensure the broadest reach.
Make sure it's impactful and attention grabbing and associate it with health, so it's gets wider reach (because of COVID we are all paying attention to health issues).
As an individual who is not in the market for a dog, one participant said that a broadly targeted campaign, designed to reach the general public, would not feel relevant to them. They further argued that, if they were interested in adopting a rescue from another country, they would almost certainly rely on a rescue organization. Several other participants subsequently agreed that the best method of reaching people wishing to acquire a dog from outside of the country would be through breeders and rescue organizations.
As a person who is not interested or in the market for dog, let alone one from outside of Canada, this would not be of interest or applicable to me. [Why is this is a] broad-based campaign for everyone, if it should really be targeted at the rescue agencies bringing in the dogs. It's they who need to be aware of the risks and requirements, so why spend the money and effort to tell millions of Canadians what you really should be trying to tell only the rescue organizations.
This should be tailored to those organizations [who rescue dogs]. [They could be placing]an ad like this on their website for anyone who connects with them and is interested in rescuing a dog.
This research utilized a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods.
Quantitative data was collected through an online survey of Canadians aged 18 and older, with a focus of the sample being pet owners.
In order to understand feelings and opinions of pet owners and those involved in pet imports, qualitative research was also undertaken (focus groups and in-depth interviews). Participants in focus groups included pet owners who have travelled abroad with their pet, as well as pet owners who have adopted/purchased a pet from abroad, and individuals who are considering getting a pet in the next year.
In-depth interviews were conducted to get information from those that are more challenging to recruit and have high involvement in pet imports. We conducted 10 in-depth interviews (IDIs) with animal welfare organizations, breeders, and veterinarians.
Quantitative data was collected through an online survey of 2,076 Canadians aged 18 and older, with a focus of the sample being pet owners. Results from the survey are valid within a margin of error of +/- 2.2 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. The survey was conducted across Canada in both official languages. The field dates for the survey were January 23-February 14, 2023. Specific questions in the survey targeted pet owners only, and the survey was also be used to recruit pet owners for the qualitative focus groups.
The target population for the survey included:
We used our probability-based online panel, Probit, in undertaking this survey. Probit is an online research panel that has been designed by Ekos to provide statistically representative data. Our panel offers complete coverage of the Canadian population (Internet, telephone, cell phone), random recruitment (participants are recruited randomly; they do not opt themselves into our panel), and equal probability sampling. All respondents to our panel are recruited by telephone using random digit dialling; their demographic information is confirmed by live interviewers.
The distribution of the recruitment process for our panel mirrors the actual population in Canada (as defined by Statistics Canada). As such, our panel can be considered representative of the general public (survey results from our online panel support confidence intervals and margin of error estimates). The overall panel size is roughly 100,000 Canadian households. Random stratified samples are drawn from the panel database for individual research assignments.
The survey was conducted by Ekos using a secure web-based survey. The average interview length was 10.6 minutes.
All respondents were offered the opportunity to complete the surveys in their official language of choice. All research work was conducted in accordance with the Standards for the Conduct of Government of Canada Public Opinion Research – Online Surveys and recognized industry standards, as well as applicable federal legislation (Privacy Act, Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, and Access to Information Act).
Following data collection, the data from this survey were statistically weighted by age, gender, region, education, and dog ownership to ensure the sample is representative of the Canadian population according to 2021 Census data.
The response rate for this survey was 23.3%. The response rate is calculated as follows: a total of 8,944 email invitations were sent out, and 33 bounced back, for a total of 8,911 valid emails. A total of 2,076 cases were completed: dividing 2,076 by 8,911 results in a response rate of 23.3%. This response rate is in line with other online surveys we have conducted with a similar length of questionnaire.
The table below presents a profile of the final sample, compared to the actual population of Canada (2021 Census information). As is the case with most surveys, the final sample under-represents younger Canadians, and those with high school or less education, which is a typical pattern for public opinion surveys in Canada, that is, older Canadians and those with more education are more likely to respond to surveys.
| Sample type | Sample | Canada (2021 Census) |
|---|---|---|
| Gender (18+) | ||
| Male | 48% | 49% |
| Female | 52% | 51% |
| Age | ||
| 18-34 | 11% | 27% |
| 35-54 | 28% | 32% |
| 55+ | 60% | 41% |
| Education level | ||
| High school diploma or less | 18% | 35% |
| Trades/college/post-secondary no degree | 31% | 36% |
| University degree | 50% | 29% |
5 focus groups were also conducted. Focus group participants were recruited through a question in the online survey completed by Probit panel members. A total of 40 participants were recruited from across the country, including a number with children in the home and those living in rural areas. In 3 of the 5 groups there was a mix of dog-owners, owners of other pets and those without pets. In the remaining two groups, all participants owned dogs, of which at least a few in each group had acquired dogs from outside of Canada or travelled with dogs outside of Canada. Discussions were conducted online between February 15th and 23rd, 2023. Each discussion lasted roughly 90 minutes for which participants received $120. Each discussion involved 4 to 6 participants for a total of 28 participants from across the country.
Discussions touched on considerations when researching, thinking about acquiring a pet, views on acquiring a pet from outside of Canada, experiences with travel outside the country with a pet and/or use of the CFIA website to research rules and requirements in this regard. Participants also discussed awareness of dog rabies, Government of Canada requirements and recent restrictions when bringing a dog into Canada, and views on recent measures. Lastly, participants were shown a series of ads used in recent dog adoption ad campaigns and asked for their feedback. The recruitment script can be found in Appendix C, and the discussion guide can be found in Appendix D.
10 in-depth interviews were also conducted, also using the recruitment question from the online survey. Of these, 4 were completed with veterinarians, 3 were completed with those who breed or have bred dogs, and 3 were completed with those who currently work or volunteer with animal welfare organizations, or have done so in the recent past. Each discussion lasted roughly 45 minutes for which participants received $150. The discussion guide can be found in Appendix E.
Thank-you for participating in this survey. Ekos Research Associates, a Canadian public opinion research company is conducting the survey on behalf of the Government of Canada. Your participation is optional and anonymous. The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete. It is being directed by Ekos Research, and is being administered according to the requirements of the Privacy Act. To view our privacy policy, click here.
If you require any technical assistance, please contact online@ekos.com
Do you own any pets?
How many pets do you own?
One pet
What type of pet do you own?
Multiple pets
What type of pets do you own?
Select all that apply
Where did you get your pet(s)?
Select all that apply
Pet owner
To what extent did you research the organization/source from which you acquired your pet(s)? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means to no extent, 7 means to a great extent, and 4 means to some extent.
One pet
Regardless of where you obtained your pet, to the best of your knowledge, was your pet born in Canada, brought into Canada from another country (i.e. was born outside of Canada and then brought into the country by somebody else), or did you acquire the pet directly from another country?
Multiple pets
Regardless of where you obtained your pets, to the best of your knowledge, were any of your pets brought into Canada from another country (i.e. born outside of Canada and then brought into the country by somebody else), or acquired directly from another country?
Why did you [Q6A = 3 or Q6B = 2] acquire your pet(s) from [Else] choose a pet that was born outside Canada [Q6A = 3 or Q6B = 2] ? [Else] and then brought into the country by somebody else?
What actions did you take before acquiring your pet?
Select all that apply
How did you find information on the requirements to bring your pet(s) into Canada?
Select all that apply
If not pet owner
Are you considering getting [Q1 = 1] another [Else] a pet in the next year?
Yes
What kind of pet are you thinking of getting?
Yes
Do you think you will get a pet from an organization/source within Canada or from outside the country?
If you knew that the animal was from another country before it came to Canada, would you still want to follow through with the purchase/adoption?
Considering pet
Do you think you will get a pet that is born in Canada or born in another country and then brought into Canada before you acquire it?
Why do you think you will acquire a pet from outside Canada?
Why do you think you will get a pet that is born outside Canada and then brought into the country before you acquire it?
Where would you look for information about importing/bringing a pet into Canada?
Select all that apply
Pet Owner
Thinking of the pet(s) you have now, have you ever travelled outside of Canada with your pet(s) (for vacation, moving abroad, etc.)?
Yes
Which country/countries did you travel with your pet(s)?
Select all that apply
[Dropdown List]
Yes
Which country/countries did you travel with your pet(s)?
Select all that apply
[Dropdown List]
Yes
How often do you travel with your pet(s)?
Would you say you are very aware, somewhat aware, not very aware or not at all aware of each of the following:
If you are travelling with a pet, you will need to meet specific requirements for each pet to bring it into the country that you're visiting
If you are travelling with a pet, you will need to meet specific requirements for each pet you bring back into Canada
If you are planning to purchase or adopt a pet from abroad, you will need to meet specific requirements to bring it into Canada
How would you rate your understanding of current regulations and the requirements for bringing pets into Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means little understanding, 7 means a great deal of understanding, and 4 means some understanding
Who do you think should have the most responsibility in ensuring that the pets brought into Canada are healthy and free of animal diseases?
Order from most to least
Most
2nd most
3rd most
Fourth most
To the best of your knowledge, when bringing pets into Canada, which government departments would you need to check with to ensure you are following all necessary laws and regulations?
Select all that apply
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals (dogs, cats, foxes etc.), including humans. Once clinical signs develop, rabies is fatal in over 99% of cases.
In Canada, strains of rabies are found in wildlife such as skunks, foxes, racoons, and bats – however, Canada does not have the canine-variant rabies strain (dog rabies).
Rabies has a long incubation period, which means an infected dog may not show any clinical signs of the disease until months later. A rabies vaccine given to a dog during the incubation period is not likely to be protective. This means that a dog can unknowingly be brought into Canada with the disease, even if it was vaccinated.
Globally, dog rabies kills more than 59,000 people every year. It is prevalent in over 100 countries, and dogs from those countries represent a serious risk to animal and human health.
How concerned are you about dog rabies getting into Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all concerned, 7 means very concerned and 4 means somewhat concerned
Recently, the Canadian government introduced a new measure that prohibits commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies from entering Canada. Commercial dogs can include, but are not limited to dogs for resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition, research, and other purposes. Before this survey, were you aware of this new measure?
Where did you hear about this new measure?
Select all that apply
How strongly do you support or oppose this new measure? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means strongly oppose, 7 means strongly support, and 4 means neither support nor oppose.
Why do you say that?
Why do you say that?
Why do you say that?
How important do you think it is that the Government of Canada prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases that are not currently in Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all important, 7 means very important, and 4 means somewhat important
How confident are you in the government's ability to prevent the entry of serious/infectious animal diseases that are not currently in Canada? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not at all confident, 7 means very confident, and 4 means somewhat confident
Why do you say that?
Are you aware that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) website has information, including import requirements, for bringing various types of animals/pets into Canada?
Yes and used it
In your experience, how helpful was CFIA's website in terms of finding information about the requirements for importing animals/pets? Please use a 7-point scale where 1 means not helpful at all, 7 means very helpful and informative, and 4 means neither.
Have you seen, read or heard any Government of Canada advertising about adopting or purchasing a pet?
Yes
Where have you seen, read or heard about these ads?
Select all that apply
What do you remember about these ads?
Yes
Did you do anything as a result of seeing this advertising?
Which of the following actions did you take?
Select all that apply
Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statements about these ads using a 7-point scale where 1 means strongly disagree, 7 means strongly agree, and 4 means neither.
These ads caught my attention
These ads talk about an important topic
These ads provide new information
The following questions will be used for statistical purposes only.
What is your gender?
In what year were you born?
Note: answer the full year, i.e. 1977 as "1977"
What is the highest level of schooling that you have completed?
Do you work in a pet store?
Do you breed or sell animals/pets?
Do you work or volunteer for an animal welfare or animal rescue organization?
Are you a veterinarian?
What is your annual household income from all sources before taxes?
Do you care for any dependents (children, grandchildren) in your household?
Do you consider yourself to be any of the following?
Select all that apply
In which province or territory do you live?
Would you describe the community you live in as a rural area, suburban area, or urban area?
We are conducting a series of group discussions to learn more about the issue of bringing pets into Canada. You don't need any specific knowledge for this discussion. Each group will include about 6 participants, would be about 90 minutes long, and held online. Individuals will receive a $120 incentive for participating in this added component.
Would you be interested in participating in one of these online discussions, if you are selected? If you are contacted, you would be provided more information about the dates and time before you commit to participating.
What is the best way to reach you if you are invited to one of our online discussions? Your personal information will be used solely for the purposes of contacting you to participate. The information is not associated with your survey results and your answers remain confidential, regardless of your decision to participate in the discussion group.
Name:
Email:
Telephone:
Ext
Thank you very much for taking the time to complete this survey.
Hello, my name is [name of nterviewer] from Ekos Research. May I speak with [name of respondent]? You recently completed a survey for us that is sponsored by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) about pets and pet ownership. At the end of the survey we informed you that we are also conducting a series of focus group discussions with Canadians to discuss factors and considerations in pet ownership, particularly when bringing pets into Canada.
Do you remember that survey and expressing an interest in this type of this discussion?
The 90-minute discussions will take place online between February 15th and 23rd in the evening. In each session, participants will be asked to help the CFIA through discussions about the things Canadian pet owners are aware of and consider in making decisions to bring their pets over the border or adopt pets from abroad. The sessions will be observed by representatives responsible for planning communications so that they can hear first-hand the opinions of Canadians. Confidentiality and anonymity will be maintained throughout the research process. There will be only 6 participants in each session and each will receive a $120 incentive for their participation.
Are you still potentially interested in participating?
Owns a pet
Based on the survey you completed, you own [pet], is that correct?
Bought animal outside Canada
And, one or more of those pets came from outside of Canada, is that correct?
Considering getting a pet
Are you considering getting [pet] in the next year?
Are you or is any member of your household or immediate family employed in:
Government of Canada
An advertising agency
A market research company
The media (Print, Radio, TV, Internet)
Participants in these discussions will be asked to voice their opinions and thoughts in the discussion. How comfortable are you in voicing your opinions in front of a small group of others in an online discussion, in [French] French [Else] English? Are you...
Not comfortable
How comfortable are you in voicing your opinions in front of a small group of others in an online discussion, in [English] French [Else] English? Are you...
You will be asked to log onto a Zoom video conference website and if you use separate audio, also dial into a teleconference number, with a Canadian number provided. You will participate through a general discussion where there are no right or wrong answers, just experiences and opinions. No one will be "put on the spot" and you will not need to have any special knowledge to participate. These discussions will be led by an experienced moderator. Sessions will be recorded for research purposes only, but confidentiality and anonymity will be maintained.
Would you be comfortable clicking on a Zoom meeting link that we provide in an email to participate?
Participants may also be asked to read a few paragraphs of materials during the discussion. Is there any reason why you could NOT participate, including reading some material on screen?
Yes
Would you be comfortable if the person leading the discussion were to read any material shown on the screen out loud to the group?
No
Is there anything that we could do to make it possible for you to participate?
Have you ever attended a focus group or one on one discussion for which you have received a sum of money?
Yes, Q4
When did you last attend one of these discussions that was sponsored by the Government of Canada?
Yes, Q4 AND not never, Q5
Have you attended 5 or more of these discussions that were sponsored by the Government of Canada?
Would you prefer to participate in a discussion in English or in French?
Now that we have gone through all of the details about what is involved in the group, that sessions will be observed and recorded, and what is being done to protect everyone's privacy and personal information.
Are you able to participate in the 90 minute discussion on...?
Note that times are listed as Eastern Standard Time and may not necessarily be in your own time zone.
If you have not used them recently, please check to make sure your audio and recording equipment, such as speakers and webcam, are working well before the day of the discussion group. Also, we are providing a Canadian call-in number for anyone without audio on their computer/tablet, but please be advised that it is not a toll-free number, although it may be in your province or region. This is all of the information and questions I have for you, so now, do you have any questions for me before the group discussion?
Replacements are not permitted. If you usually use reading glasses you should make sure to have them with you as there will be some viewing of images and reading of materials throughout the discussion.
We are asking that all participants log in 5 minutes prior to the start time of the session. Would you be able to log on and dial in 5 minutes prior to the session time? Late arrivals may not be admitted to the discussion, nor would an incentive be received.
Text/phone
We will be giving you a reminder telephone call and sending an email a day or two prior to your group discussion.
Is [phone] the best telephone number at which to reach you?
[Email on file ] Is [email] the best email address at which to send you an invitation to the discussion, with the secure link and 1-800 number? [else ]What is the best email address at which to send you an invitation to the discussion, with the secure link and 1-800 number?
Email on file
Please provide your first and last names. Only your first name will be used in the discussion.
Name on file:
First name:
Last name:
Is [AQEMAIL is not empty] [email] [Else] the correct email to send the $120 e-transfer, once you have participated in the online discussion?
May we have your mailing address to send the $120, once you have participated in the online discussion?>
Street address format: (apt #) - (Street #) (Street name) eg. 102 - 359 Kent st.
Postal Box Number format: (PO Box #) (Station info, if applicable) eg. PO Box 1004 Stn. Main
Rural Route format: (RR #) (Station info, if applicable) eg. RR 6 Stn. Main
Address Line 1:
Address Line 2 (if needed):
Address Line 3 (if needed):
City:
Province:
Postal Code: (Format: T5A 1A1)
If you have any questions or something comes up and you can no longer participate in the discussions, please let us know by calling us toll-free at 1-800-388-2873 or by sending an e-mail to focusgroups@ekos.com. Thank you for your cooperation and time.
Quota filled
Thank you for your cooperation! We will contact you should space become available in the group.
Thank you for your cooperation! Based on the information you have provided, unfortunately you are not eligible to participate in this survey.
I am very sorry, but due to the parameters of the study we will not be able to include you in the focus groups.
NB. Probes in grey are only used to guide moderator or act as examples
Probe: (from a breeder, pet store, animal shelter, Facebook marketplace, kijiji etc.)
Probe: do you think there is a difference in level of concern or risk depending on how the dog is acquired?
[Probe]
Interaction with your own kids/pets
Types of concerns - health/diseases of concern
Trust in owner – followed proper steps
Let's talk about animal health...
To present to the group:
Dog rabies is different from the strains of rabies found in Canadian wildlife. Dog rabies is adapted to dogs, and thus makes it a greater risk to human health due to our close proximity with dogs. Once clinical signs develop, rabies is fatal in over 99% of cases (in dogs humans and others). While many other countries have dog rabies, Canada does not.
As of September 28, 2022, the entry of commercial dogs into Canada from countries at high-risk for dog rabies was prohibited until further notice. Commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies are not permitted to enter Canada and import permits are no longer issued. Commercial dogs include dogs intended for purposes such as being given/transferred to another person, resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition and research.
If needed: during the pandemic period, dog imports increased by 400%
[Refer to presentation on creatives from previous dog imports campaign]
Thank you
Thank you for agreeing to take part in this research project on behalf of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The research will be used to help the CFIA better understand your views on pet trade regulations.
As a reminder:
We really appreciate you taking the time to talk with us today and share your experiences. Your views and opinions are extremely important.
Subsection (Veterinarians/Veterinary technicians only)
Just checking, how familiar are you with canine variant rabies (also known as dog rabies)?
Mention the following information: (if not already raised in requirements section)
You may have heard - As of September 28, 2022, the entry of commercial dogs into Canada from countries at high-risk for dog rabies was prohibited until further notice. Commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies are not permitted to enter Canada and import permits will no longer be issued. Commercial dogs include dogs intended for purposes such as being given/transferred to another person, resale, adoption, fostering, breeding, show or exhibition and research.
Probes:
Mention the following information (if opposed):
There have been previous instances where a healthy looking dog entered Canada, with all the proper documentation and health records, including a rabies vaccination certificate. In one of these cases, due to a long incubation period, signs of rabies didn't show up until 6 months later. Public health officials had to contact all the individuals who interacted with the dog to give them treatment.
(If previously against the policy prohibiting imported dogs from countries with dog rabies.)
Thank You