Missouri – Missouri has introduced a new requirement for cattle and pig exhibitors, mandating a veterinarian’s certification to enhance disease prevention among livestock shown at various events. The Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) made this announcement last week, on February 8, aiming to safeguard animal health and agricultural integrity within the state.
Strengthening Disease Prevention Measures
The new regulation stipulates that exhibitors of beef and swine must now secure a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) prior to participating in shows. This certification, which must be obtained within 30 days before an event, will document the specific shows an animal is slated to attend within that period.
In addition to the CVI, the MDA has outlined specific identification requirements for beef and swine projects. These identification measures align with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s guidelines on official identification eartags, which include options such as:
- An official National Uniform Eartagging System tag that starts with Missouri’s official state number, 43, and is issued by the USDA to accredited veterinarians.
- An official Animal Identification Number tag.
- Consists of 15 digits, beginning with 840 for the U.S.
- Visual or Radio Frequency Identification
- Available from the manufacturer.
- For cattle, a registration tattoo and corresponding papers from the relevant breed association are acceptable.
- For unregistered swine, an ear notch accompanied with farm records.
Missouri State Veterinarian Dr. Steve Strubberg emphasized the importance of these rule changes, stating, “These rule changes are meant to reduce the risk of introducing disease into Missouri herds.” He highlighted the critical role of veterinary oversight prior to shows in minimizing the spread of diseases from ill animals to healthy ones, potentially affecting entire herds upon their return to farms.
The implementation of CVI and specific animal identification for beef and swine mirrors existing protocols for sheep and goat exhibitors in Missouri. The Department urges those involved in livestock exhibitions to collaborate with local veterinarians, advisors, or fair superintendents to comply with these new requirements, ensuring a safer environment for all participating animals and contributing to the overall health of Missouri’s livestock industry.
