Download Horses and horse semen - Import risk analysis (January 2000)

The risk analysis considers the disease risks associated with imports of live animals and semen of the species horses, Equus caballus, and donkeys, Equus asinus.

A process of hazard identification has developed a list of the diseases of concern. The list comprises the infectious diseases affecting horses that constitute a risk during international trade in horses and equine products. Diseases endemic in New Zealand that are not subject to official control are not considered further, fulfilling the SPS Agreement obligation regarding consistency with national treatment.

The risk assessment presents a monograph for each disease of concern. Each monograph reviews the epidemiology of the disease, including distribution, clinical signs, transmission, diagnosis and treatment. This information is then used to provide a risk estimate by considering the risk of release (the disease agent being present at the time horses or semen are imported), exposure (the likelihood of spread in New Zealand if imported) and for adverse consequences to follow either of these events. Finally, risk management measures (safeguards) are recommended.