Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Veterinary Medicine
 
chapter
Regulations Governing the Practice of Veterinary Medicine [18 VAC 150 ‑ 20]
Action Regulation of haul-in facilities
Stage NOIRA
Comment Period Ended on 4/8/2026
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4/1/26  12:01 pm
Commenter: Anonymous

Food Animal Haul in Regulations
 

Putting restrictions on a large animal haul in facility can be seen as impractical or even counter productive when you consider the purpose these facilities serve. They are designed to handle livestock efficiently, often in high volumes and are essential for agricultural operations, veterinary services and breeding programs.

Additionally, large animal facilities already operate within established industry standards for animal welfare, biosecurity and safety. Adding excessing or redundant restrictions will not meaningfully improve outcomes but could instead burden producers with unnecessary costs and hurdles. This can ultimately impact farmers, transporters and the broader agricultural economy that depends on timely and flexible animal handling. 

In many cases, flexibility is critical, weather conditions, emergencies, and seasonal demands all require facilities to adapt quickly. Making stricter regulations could cost the animal its life, not to mention this is the livelihood of the farmer and veterinarian. 

CommentID: 240415