PHYSICAL IDENTIFICATION FOR GOATS

Goats are required to have physical identification per the USDA. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/sheep-and-goat-health/scrapie-tags

You need physical identification on a goat to register them. This may seem unnecessary, but if goats get lost or are passed on to subsequent owners, it can be impossible to identify them without a physical ID such as ear tattoo, ear tag or microchip.

The three choices for permanent ID per USDA are;
1. Ear tattoos plus copy of SCIGBA registration (not application).
2. Scrapies ear tag with premise ID #.
3. USDA compliant microchip. https://www.microchipidsystems.com/product/usda-840-official-microchip/

Ear tags or Microchips (USDA approved) are the best option for interstate transportation on goats who don't have copies of their registrations available. Per USDA regulations, Tattoos are acceptable as permanent ID only when accompanied by a copy of the goat’s registration certificate. (SCIGBA is a recognized registry).

When transporting goats across state lines, one of the 3 forms of ID must be listed on the health certificate (called CVI- Certified Veterinarian Inspection) by your vet. If tattooed, a copy of registration is also given to the transporter. (Note: We discovered that ear tattoos fade fairly quickly.)

One more note...for the CVI, when your vet calls the state to get the requirements, the person answering will usually say "scrapies tag" without offering the other options. If you have microchips, ask your vet to specifically inquire about microchips. They are recognized by the USDA and therefore recognized by the states that follow the USDA regulations.  

To obtain ear tags, you first need a Premise ID number from the USDA. For microchips, you also need a Flock ID number. Call 1-866-USDA-Tag (866-873-2824) to get your Premise ID and/or Flock ID.

Ear Tags: Order from your supplier of choice.

Microchips: SCIGBA has an account with MicroChip ID Systems for discounted mini microchips (smaller size, smaller needle to insert) and readers.

  1. Call 800-434-2843, press #2 for sales.

  2. Tell them you are with the SCIGBA, and ask to set up your account with your own login.

  3. You need to tell them your SCIGBA Member # and your Herd Name. Note: For the USDA approved 840 chips (they do have non-840 chips too) you need to tell them your Premise ID# and Flock ID# which you have obtained from the USDA.

  4. The special pricing is $5 per chip and $50 for the Pocket Hero reader (usually $79).

  5. Once your account is set up, go to https://hub.microchipidsystems.com/, log in to your account and order your chips.

Need Help?
If you need assistance on anything with this process, feel free to contact the folks at the above website.