For Immediate Release: February 13, 2026
Portland, Oregon

NAIA Praises Farm Bill Inclusion of New Framework to Protect Animal and Public Health

PORTLAND, OR, UNITED STATES, February 13, 2026 - Today, the National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) lauded the inclusion of the Healthy Dog Importation Act in the Farm Bill text released by House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson (R-PA). Patti Strand, NAIA President and Co-Founder, said in the following statement:
 
"The National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) strongly supports the inclusion of this new framework to strengthen health requirements to safeguard animal and public health from the risks associated with the importation of dogs into the United States. Thanks to the diligent work of the lead sponsors of the Healthy Dog Importation Act (HDIA), Representatives Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Don Davis (D-NC), and a broad coalition of veterinary, livestock, and companion animal advocates, we are one step closer to protecting people and animals from the growing threat of dangerous pathogens that are transmitted into the United States via unchecked dog importation. NAIA stands ready to work with lawmakers in both chambers to pass a bipartisan farm bill this year."

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The National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 1991 to bring together subject-matter experts in animal welfare and husbandry to provide evidence-based solutions to complex issues involving animals.

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Patti Strand, NAIA President at naia@naiaonline.org or call (503) 756-0826