Ref Code: CAT04

Category

Teaching - 3 (Instructor : student ratio 1:3)

Research - 4

Objective

To provide a practical means of identifying individual animals in a herd situation.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Video.

Details of procedure

Any equipment used should be sharp and should be disinfected between animals.

1. Ear tagging. The head should be adequately restrained and the tag located in the centre of the ear or slightly towards the head, so that the longitudinal ridges of the ear are avoided.

Radio Frequency (electronic) ear tags used in the National Livestock Identification Scheme should be located high up in the ear to reduce the chance of lost tags.

Replacement tags should be located in the previous site where possible.

Applicators should be kept in good working order. Lubrication of applicator pins is recommended to ease the release of tag components after application.

2. Ear tattooing. The head should be adequately restrained. The ear should be cleaned with methylated spirits and the tattoo applied to avoid ridges and blood vessels. Only approved tattoo paste should be used. It should be applied to the ear prior to using the pliers and should be rubbed into the puncture holes.

Tattoo needles should be kept sharp and in good repair.

Practice on cardboard prior to using stock is advisable to ensure correct number or symbol is applied the correct way up.

3. Ear marking. The head should be adequately restrained. Ear marking pliers should be maintained in good condition to ensure cutting, instead of tearing, of the ear, and kept disinfected.

Drugs, chemicals or biological agents

Nil

Impact of procedure on wellbeing of animals

Minimal, if carried out as recommended.

Reuse and repeated use

Should only be necessary to carry out once although ear tagging or ear marking may be carried out following tattooing earlier in life.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Livestock should be handled quietly before, during and after the procedure.

Pain relief measures

Not required.

Qualifications, experience, skills or training necessary to perform the procedure

Demonstrator: Must have prior experience in the practice.

Students: Should be familiar with handling cattle.