The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), formerly known as the Office International des Epizooties (OIE), is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to improving animal health worldwide. Founded in 1924, WOAH plays a crucial role in coordinating, supporting, and promoting animal disease control.
For dogs, the responsibilities of WOAH encompass:
- Disease Surveillance: Vigilantly monitoring and reporting on the emergence and spread of canine diseases, such as rabies.
- Standard Setting: Establishing global standards for preventing, controlling, and eradicating dog diseases, ensuring a unified approach worldwide.
- Knowledge Dissemination: Providing invaluable information and resources to veterinary professionals and governments on canine health, encompassing vaccination best practices, treatment protocols, and prevention strategies.
- International Collaboration: Fostering cooperation among nations to tackle pressing canine health challenges, such as rabies control and infectious disease prevention.
- Animal Welfare Advocacy: Championing the humane treatment of dogs, including the publication of the Terrestrial Animal Code, which offers guidelines for responsible dog population management.
WOAH is recognized by the World Trade Organization (WTO) as the international reference for the safe trade of animals and animal products. Its work helps to protect the health of animals and ensure fair and safe trade practices.
Website:
https://www.woah.org/