On March 1, 2011, the United States Department of Agriculture announced that United States Customs will not allow any animal shipments to enter the U.S. without appointment with the port veterinarian at Lewiston/Niagara Falls, New York port of entry for vet inspection

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The appointment must be made one week before for dairy farmers, feeders, in-transit cattle and 48 hours before for other shipments.

This switch in protocol will affect any horse people shipping into the state for racing, breeding, or other purposes.

To view a copy of the appointment request form click here. The department's fax number is 716-297-6243

For more information, contact the USDA Veterinary Services Department at 716-297-6203.

(With files from the USDA)