Air Canada's privately funded "ark in the sky" returned 100 companion animals to Australia and reunited them with their owners, after quarantining at the Post-Entry Quarantine (PEQ) facility.
The much loved 74 dogs and 26 cats arrived in Melbourne on 2 August from Vancouver after being separated from their owners because of COVID-19 restrictions.
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said today marked the culmination of months of planning and logistical challenges.
"It's a very exciting and emotional time for these owners who will be seeing their pets for the first time in many months, and we can report all the pets are in good health after their flight and quarantine stay," Minister Littleproud said
"Our PEQ officers are very proud to have played a significant role in helping to coordinate this successful reunion while also ensuring Australia's robust biosecurity status.
"Staff coordinated with the Canadian airline, the overseas pet agent World Wide Animal Travel and Menzies Cargo in Melbourne to prepare for the scheduled arrival to ensure all the necessary import permit and animal compliance conditions were met.
"Upon arrival at Tullamarine, they were immediately transported to the PEQ facility in Mickleham for 10 days quarantine.
"This is because imported dogs and cats have the potential to carry several diseases of biosecurity concern such as rabies and canine leishmaniasis, which have the potential to affect humans.
"The PEQ Facility has remained open and operational throughout the various phases of the pandemic response and continues to quarantine pets from around the world."
Find more details on PEQ's cats and dogs facilities here.
Fast Facts:
- All companion animal arrivals into Australia are required to spend 10 days at the PEQ facility to fulfill Australia's biosecurity requirements to protect our agricultural industries, the environment and the Australian community.
- The PEQ has facilitated 2726 companion animals this year to date - 858 cats and 1868 dogs.
