The California Department of Food and Agriculture issues this important message posted on the department’s website.
California State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Jones has granted a 24-hour permit for nine reindeer scheduled to visit California on the evening of December 24 and in the early morning hours of December 25.
The application was filed with CDFA Animal Health Branch staff by a rotund, jolly man with a red suit, white beard, and a pocketful of candy canes.
The signature on the application reads, “K. Kringle.”
“Although Santa’s reindeer are special and very magical, we are grateful that every year he ensures they meet and exceed our animal health requirements to enter the state, he really cares about protecting the health of our farm animals and wildlife,” said Dr. Jones.
The permit was granted with two conditions: the nine reindeer listed, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph, may not fraternize with other reindeer in the State of California, and the sleigh must be checked before entering the state to ensure no agricultural pests are hitching a ride.
“Mr. Kringle’s veterinarian has assured us that the reindeer are healthy and fit again this year. They are ready for a busy night,” said Dr. Jones.
“We are excited to welcome them into our state, where they are sure to find plenty of yummy fresh vegetables to renew their energy,”
CDFA Secretary Karen Ross thanked Department staff for their hard work, recognizing their commitment to maintaining animal health and safe and abundant California-grown food to share with all our visitors this holiday season.
“We are delighted to issue this permit to Mr. Kringle,” said Secretary Ross.
“We wish him safe travels and plenty of California milk and cookies as he and his reindeer deliver presents to the children of our state.”
