United States Regulations
In the United States, xenotransplantation as both a research and medical practice (in it’s very early stages as a medical practice) is under the authority of the FDA. In 1997 the “Xenotransplantation subcommittee” was formed which oversees the issues surrounding the ongoing mechanisms for scientific research and public health.
The FDA clearly outlines the particular procedures for animal husbandry, care, as well as the termination of animals’ (consistent w/various American animal care committees). Further, the job of the FDA mainly rests with the regulation and assessment of animal breeding facilities and health and husbandry for approval and subsequent use in the practice of xenotransplantation research.
Canada’s Regulations
The current situation in Canada regarding xenotransplantation is such that makes transplantation permissible from a legal standpoint. However, any such practice in Canada, if it is to be considered legal, must first go through clinical trials, approved and overseen by Health Canada. According to Health Canada, unlike the American situation, there has been no approved research or practice of xenotransplantation to date in Canada.