Update:Equine Identification in the U.S.: Update: Equine Identification in the U.S. Amy W. Mann
Co-Chair, USDA Equine Species Working Group
NIAA ID INFO EXPO
September 2005
Equine Species Working Group: Equine Species Working Group Established January 2004
35 Industry Reps andamp; Animal Health Officials
5 Subcommittees to address major concerns
Submitted Recommendations to the USDA in December ’04 and updated Recommendations in June ’05
Highlight the unique nature of the Horse Industry while including similar recommendations of other livestock groups.
Dynamic Process: changes can be made, it is not a final document.
Available on AHC website: www.horsecouncil.org
ESWG Recent Focus – Identification Methods: ESWG Recent Focus – Identification Methods Begin by incorporating existing ID methods:
Tattoo, DNA, Brand, Microchip
ESWG: Recommendation should focus on an Identification method most suitable for participation in NAIS.
RFID appears most practical at this time.
By establishing a uniformly accepted method such as RFID, the following conditions are met:
Internationally compatible, Permits 15-digit identification number, allows for compatibility
ESWG ID Method Recommendation: ESWG ID Method Recommendation The ISO/ANSI compatible RFID chips (11784/85, 134.2 kHz) are the recommended form of electronic equine identification in order to comply with the United States National Animal Identification System (NAIS) for the purpose of disease control.
The recommended implantation site for the microchip is the nuchal ligament on the left side, in the middle third of the neck, halfway between the ears and the withers.
Use of RFID scanners that, at a minimum read 134.2khz microchips and are able to identify the presence of a microchip in a horse. If the reader is unable to decode the chip, it must be able to identify who the manufacturer is so that the necessary reader can be obtained
ESWG Future Focus – Tracking & Communication: ESWG Future Focus – Tracking andamp; Communication Questions to be considered on Tracking:
Which horses must be included in a tracking system?
Who reports the information?
Who does the information get reported to?
Communication with the Industry
ESWG Webpage Operational and Continuously Updated
www.horsecouncil.org
List of Benefits, FAQs, Press Releases – Premise Registration, White Papers – Microchip Issues and Equine Health Issues (under development), Trade Press Articles
Conclusion: Conclusion ESWG moved very quickly at the start, has dealt with and will deal with tough issues.
Today ESWG has Recommended Standards
Moving Toward the Future!