Legislative and ethical aspects on use of canine artificial insemination in the 21st century

Abstract

In view of the important progress made in veterinary science and the increasing availability of new reproductive technologies in the 21st century, demand for canine artificial insemination (CAI) for medical and/or breeding management reasons is growing worldwide resulting in raising some legal and ethical concerns. Currently, imported chilled and frozen semen from European countries can be sold to the final consumer with no strings attached. To compound this problem, the importation in Europe has no bio-security procedures. Given the potential role of this canine semen’s movements in spreading of bacterial (i.e. leptospirosis), parasitic (i.e. leishmaniasis), viral (i.e. canine herpesvirus) or genetic (i.e. progressive retinal atrophy) diseases from one state to another, the authors propose the application of regulatory measures regarding importation and exportation of semen in order to secure animal welfare and health. They underline that the interests and welfare of puppies that will be born as well as the health and welfare of bitches and sperm donors should be respected. For these reasons, ethical implications related to the use of canine semen should be taken into account. Highlights Canine artificial insemination is growing worldwide together with interest in the international semen shipment. Canine semen’s movements could introduce disease agents or genetic diseases from one state to another. There are several different regulatory frameworks governing the use of artificial insemination in dogs. We suggest that the application of regulatory measures regarding importation and exportation of semen should be included in the EU legislation.