Since becoming Minister with responsibility for animal health matters in The Bahamas, I have had the good fortune of developing an excellent working relationship with the various Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) who have shown their commitment to ensuring that all animals in The Bahamas enjoy good health. The working relationship forged has allowed for the holding of meaningful discussions, the proffering of sound advice, and, when necessary remedial action. On Friday past I held a meeting with the Veterinary Medical Association of The Bahamas (VMAB) and The Bahamas Humane Society (BHS) at which time I was advised of their concern over the high instances of canine distemper in a number of communities within New Providence.

What is Canine Distemper?
Canine distemper, I am advised, is a highly contagious viral disease in dogs that once contracted has no effective cure or treatment. It is a
progressive illness that begins with respiratory symptoms that continues to a neurological stage which may lead to death. The symptoms include: discharge from eyes and nose, loss of appetite, lack of coordination, muscle twitching, head tilting and seizures. This disease is spread through direct contact, aerosol exposure and contact with contaminated surfaces and clothing. The disease can be prevented by vaccination, keeping pets away from other animals and by avoiding handling of another person’s animals.

Actions to be Taken
Given the report furnished by the Veterinary Medical Association of The Bahamas (VMAB) and The Bahamas Humane Society (BHS) regarding the outbreak of this disease I have concluded that there is a need for immediate attention and strategic action by my Ministry.

In this regard my Ministry, in partnership with the Veterinary Medical Association of The Bahamas (VMAB), The Bahamas Humane Society (BHS) and other concerned members of the private sector, has began the process of offering free distemper vaccination for all dogs beginning today, Wednesday July 30, 2014, at The Bahamas Humane Society in Chippingham. This vaccination campaign is in an effort to prevent the spread of canine distemper in New Providence by providing dogs with their best immune defense against this disease. The first 1,000 vaccinations have been donated through the auspices of the various international partners of The Bahamas Humane Society.

The Government of The Bahamas will provide $20,000.00. for an additional 5,000 vaccinations through funding held within my Ministry (Department of Agriculture) and the Ministry of Financial Services. Over the next few weeks Veterinarians associated with the Veterinary Medical Association of The Bahamas (VMAB), The Bahamas Humane Society (BHS) and other animal welfare groups will be administering vaccines through New Providence to dogs whose owners cannot afford a visit to the veterinarian and the stray dog population.

Satellite clinics will be set up in Elizabeth Estate, Carmichael Road, Bain Town, Chippingham, Kemp Road, Fox Hill, Gambier, Adelaide and the various Haitian Shanty Towns in the communities around New Providence. The Government and private sector will work on a daily plan to ensure that as many dogs as possible are vaccinated to prevent the spread of the disease.

Order to Suspend Movement of Dogs
To ensure that the disease is contained within New Providence I have instructed, through the Department of Agriculture, via an Order that the
movement of dogs from New Providence to the Family Islands and other countries is hereby suspended. That is, no dog should be taken from New Providence, without having a full health screening by a private veterinarian and certified by the Government Senior Veterinarian. No puppies will be allowed to leave New Providence. I encourage all dog owners and concerned citizens to assist in this island wide effort to eradicate the threat to our canine friends.