07-31-2003
Prairie Dog Ban Changed

MADISON -- An emergency rule put in place to deal with the monkeypox outbreak has been changed to bring it into line more closely with federal requirements and to better reflect what is now known about exposed animals.

The new rule is to remain in place at least until Nov. 9. A public hearing on the rule, which is already effective, is scheduled at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, in Room 411 of the State Agriculture Building, 2811 Agriculture Drive, Madison.

The first emergency rule banned imports, sale, public contact, or release of any prairie dog, or of any other mammal that had come into contact with prairie dogs since April 1. The amended rule bans import, sale, public contact or release of any prairie dog or any African rodent. References to other mammals or the April 1 date have been removed. African rodents are defined as tree squirrels, rope squirrels, dormice, Gambian giant pouched rats, brush-tailed porcupines and striped mice.

The changes were prompted by two factors, said acting State Veterinarian Dr. Robert Ehlenfeldt.

First, the federal government issued a rule between the time the state's rule was sent for publishing and the effective date. The federal rule was more restrictive in some ways than the state rule, and less restrictive in others. This was confusing to those affected and difficult to comply with, Ehlenfeldt said.

Second, new information came to light that defined when and where exposure to monkeypox was likely to have occurred.

You can view a copy of the rule here, or by calling 608-224-4872. Written comments may be emailed or mailed to DATCP-Animal Health Division, P.O. Box 8911, Madison, WI 53708-8911, by Sept. 3.

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