Santa’s reindeer gets Mississippi certification, Santa gets travel clearance
Photo: Dr. James Watson, State Veterinarian, signs a certificate of veterinary inspection to permit Santa Claus’ reindeer to enter and exit the state of Mississippi on Christmas Eve.
Dec. 23, 2024- The Mississippi Board of Animal Health (MBAH) issued a certificate of veterinary inspection to Santa Claus of the North Pole, permitting Mr. Claus’ reindeer entry to the state of Mississippi for an “annual business trip” the night of Christmas Eve, Dec. 24.
“I am happy to announce that Santa’s reindeer have been given clearance to travel to Mississippi tomorrow night to deliver Christmas wishes to all of the good boys and girls,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson. “I encourage children to get in bed early so Santa doesn’t pass you by.”
Dr. James Watson, State Veterinarian with MBAH, found all nine reindeer to be in perfect health and free of any illnesses that would prevent them from entering the state. Since the team of reindeer pulling Mr. Claus’ sleigh met all the necessary requirements, Dr. Watson issued the special certification.
“Our agency is charged with protecting the health of Mississippi’s livestock and poultry, and that is a job we take very seriously. So, I am delighted to let the public know that Santa Claus and his reindeer have all the proper certification needed to enter the great state of Mississippi and deliver packages to children who have made the nice list,” said Dr. Watson. The MBAH encourages all Mississippians to leave out treats and milk for both Santa Claus and his hard-working reindeer Christmas Eve night.
The Board of Animal Health was created by the Mississippi Legislature and given plenary power to deal with all contagious and infectious diseases of animals as in the opinion of the board may be prevented, controlled, or eradicated, and with full power to make, promulgate, and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary to control, eradicate and prevent those diseases.
The Mississippi Board of Animal Health works closely with the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC) and is housed at the MDAC building headquarters in Jackson. To learn more about MBAH, visit www.mbah.ms.gov.
Santa gets travel clearance from MDOT
Dec. 23, 2024 – Because no one logs more travel miles on Christmas Eve than Santa Claus, the Big Guy simply insists on being well prepared. That’s why earlier this month, at Santa’s request, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) cleared St. Nick and his reindeer for all modes of travel in the state on Christmas Eve and awarded him an official Certificate of Travel Clearance.
MDOT staff thoroughly inspected Santa’s extra wide sleigh load, ensuring it met all safety requirements. Permits were issued for his sack of toys surpassing posted weight limits, and Rudolph’s nose so bright met, but did not exceed, the illumination threshold. All takeoffs and landings to and from the homes of good children have been approved, and exceptions were granted for any last-minute “Nice List” additions.
“Santa knows the importance of being prepared no matter how you choose to travel, and he’s a staunch, yet jolly, safety advocate to boot,” said Brad White, MDOT Executive Director. “Before Santa Claus comes to your town, make sure your elf-size family members always travel in car seats, wear your seatbelt and check it twice, and remember, he sees you when you’re speeding, and he knows when you’ve been texting. Take it from Kris Kringle: Put safety first so everyone can have a Merry Christmas.”
While at MDOT, Santa received reports on Mississippi drivers’ conduct from elves Darryl and Cheryl. Sadly, elven intel suggests some of the state’s motorists may receive a lump of coal this year. However, St. Nick insisted that with a few behavior adjustments and a sprinkle of Christmas spirit, even the most egregious drivers may be able to change their fate. Darryl and Cheryl also gifted Santa a reflective vest for extra safety and visibility along state highways.
Currently, conditions appear favorable for sleigh flight on Christmas Eve. Motorists are advised to drive slow and be alert for sleighs, reindeer and their white-tailed cousins after dark on Christmas Eve. Blitzened driving is strictly prohibited.
