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Spring 2008 news...

2007 Show Season Means New Rules for Livestock Exhibitors

INDIANAPOLIS (27 Nov. 2006)-Livestock exhibitors in Indiana will see some changes in the 2007 show season.  Beyond the premise identification requirement, that went into effect on Sept. 1, 2006, Hoosier livestock exhibitors will no longer have to present a certificate of veterinary
inspection (CVI) at Indiana shows under state law.
        Members of the Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) recently removed language from state rules that requires a CVI, signed by a veterinarian within 90 days of a show. Board members left the
30-day CVI requirement for out-of-state animals exhibiting in Indiana untouched.
        "This change is really about recognizing the diligence of Hoosier producers and veterinarians, who have worked for decades to make this state free of many animal diseases, including pseudorabies,
tuberculosis and brucellosis," explains Indiana State Veterinarian Bret D. Marsh, DVM. "We saw this as an opportunity to recognize those efforts and reward our industries with fewer requirements when they participate in exhibition events."
        While BOAH has made this change to state rules, Dr. Marsh notes that some exhibition organizers, including some 4H fairs, may continue to require CVIs for their participants.
        "The Board included a provision in the rule to allow event organizers to customize requirements to meet their needs," he explains.
"Some county fair organizers will continue the CVI requirement, in some case for specific species only."
        That is why producers should always verify with the event managers what is required for a show before arriving.
        Producers should not assume that eliminating the CVI requirement means BOAH is placing less emphasis on the importance of animal health.
        "We see the need to shift the thinking about the use of health papers," Dr. Marsh explains. "CVIs serve a great purpose-they present an opportunity for animals to be examined by a veterinarian and they open the lines of communication between the practitioner and the client.
        "But producers need to remember that a CVI loses its value over time, especially for animals that travel from place to place. We need owners to assess the general health of each of their animals before
every show-not just rely on a piece of paper as a clean bill of health when it was written by a veterinarian one, two or even three months ago."
        With the new rule, BOAH is launching an educational campaign for livestock exhibitors. "Know Before You Show" is the theme for materials designed to raise awareness about the most common diseases that threaten the health of sheep, goats, cattle and hogs.
        Beginning in December, BOAH will have materials online for all exhibitors to learn more about prevention and detection of disease. Agency staff will be attending trade shows and other events to raise
awareness and discuss issues with producers.
        Information and materials, including printable PDF fact sheets, are available on the BOAH website at www.boah.in.gov. Click on the "Know Before You Show" link on the front page.

For more information, contact:
Denise Derrer
Public Information Director
Indiana State Board of Animal Health
805 Beachway Drive, Ste. 50
Indianapolis, IN  46224-7785
Ph:  317/227-0308
Fax:  317/227-0368
www.boah.in.gov

Congratulations to the following State Fair Winners:

There were 60 heifers and 44 steers shown.  Herefords were the second largest breed.