How do I go about getting the stuff required for compliance. I have only three ( all of whom are expecting soon ) goats. All female; all of breeding age. I would like to comply as I will want to improve my heard as money wll permit. Also I take them elswhere to visit the buck of choice.I don't lie the idea of ear tags though. Won't they pull these out of each others ears? OUCH! That would hurt! Can I sign up on-line somewhere? Or maybe an 800-number?Have any of you done this?Thanks

-- Bonnie (none@thistime.com), February 12, 2002

Answers

Bonnie, Your local Agriculture extension office should be able to tell you who to get ahold of for the scrapies program. I don't know if it differs, depending on the state you live in. I am in Michigan, and you only have to tag if you are selling a goat that is not tattooed.

I think if you go to the USDA site on the internet, there is a link to clink on for scrapies program. Use google and type in USDA.

-- Barbara (vozarbi@sensible-net.com), February 13, 2002.

Scrapie Eradication Program - Free tags and sign up. Toll Free 1-866- 873-2824 You don't have to use the tags if you have a registered tattoo with a breed registry.

-- shari (smillers@snowcrest.net), February 14, 2002.

And you don't have to use the tags Bonnie, only if you are selling them. All the person who breeds the does would need to know is the premise ID number, and that is really just so they know you are in the program. I do think eventually it will hurt sales if you aren't involved. The tags are very tiny, smaller than my pinky finger, I was actually pleased! I was thinking "big ole cattle tag" we got the plastic, they are white, very easy to read, we will only be using them for export and for goats we sell without their papers. After posting on Countryside, my galfriend emailed me to tell me she had to show her premise ID number to get her health certificate for the Houston Livestock Show this next week! So yes it is starting. Vicki

-- Vicki McGaugh TX (vickilonesomedoe@hotmail.com), February 14, 2002.