Indiana Clarifies Transport Identification for Pigs

December 8, 2006 — Jennifer Greiner, DVM

In the world of animal health there are many types of identification. Between premise identification numbers, tattoo numbers, individual identification and permit numbers, the system for identifying animals can be quite confusing. The Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) reminds producers of the required identification for movement of pigs.

Animal Health Advisory

Clarification of Numbers and ID for Transport of Pigs

In the world of animal health there are many types of identification. Between premise identification numbers, tattoo numbers, individual identification and permit numbers, the system for identifying animals can be quite confusing. The Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) reminds producers of the required identification for movement of pigs.

The tattoo number is the most common means of identifying weanlings and feeder pigs for interstate shipment. This number is acquired by contacting the BOAH Swine Division. BOAH will assign a permanent number that includes a state identifier. This number should be tattooed on pigs prior to transport and is specific to that producer. The number may be used on unlimited numbers of pigs from that specific herd. This number is used exclusively for this purpose. The premise ID may not be used because other states are not yet recognizing it for interstate movements.

Another number required by BOAH is the import permit number. This number is required for pigs entering Indiana and may be obtained by contacting BOAH at 317/227-0311 within 24 hours prior to shipment. The permit number is valid only for 30 days and is good only for one specific shipment date.

Although it is not always a number, all pigs except weanling and feeder pigs with a tattoo are required to have unique individual identification. Crossbred pigs must have an approved tattoo or an eartag. Ear notches are considered official identification for registered purebred pigs.

The premise identification number is the newest in this list of identification numbers. Every animal site that has a unique 911 or postal address should have its own premise ID. Different numbers should be issued for sites not contiguous within an operation. (Land separated by only a county road may be considered contiguous.) Facilities for animals at different stages of production (for example, finishing pigs and sow units) may be one premise, if all are on the same piece of contiguous land. Only one premise ID number is needed when multiple species are on the same premise. The premise ID number is linked to a physical piece of property and will remain as such, regardless of ownership of the animals present. The premise ID number is not a permanent identification for an animal or group of animals. Consider the premise ID number like an address for an animal.

Recently, BOAH has received a number of inquiries regarding using the premise ID number in place of the tattoo number. The premise ID number is not the appropriate number to tattoo on pigs. Remember, if the animal is sold and moved to another location, the animals will be associated with the premise ID number of the purchaser. Also, the premise ID number is 7 digits long. Most tattoo devices can not apply numbers of this size.

For more information regarding use of premise ID or individual ID for swine; contact BOAH at 877-747-3038 or plivers@boah.in.gov.

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Jennifer Greiner, DVM, Director, Cattle Health and ID Programs, Indiana State Board of Animal Health