Guidance

Best Sheep and Goat Tagging Practice

Published 3 August 2021

This guidance was withdrawn on

Best practice advice on tagging sheep and goats is provided by approved ear tag suppliers.

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sheep-and-goat-tagging-best-practice/best-sheep-and-goat-tagging-practice

  • The law does not set out which ear you should use for tagging, but industry representatives have recommended that the left ear of the sheep or goat should be used wherever possible.
  • Make sure your operator is properly trained and competent.
  • Think carefully about the best type of tags for your animals. Use a suitable style and size of tag we approved for the breed, size and age of the animal.
  • Make sure the tag is fitted correctly by following the manufacturer’s instructions and use the correct pliers/applicator for the model of tag you are fitting.
  • Fit tags in cool weather (where possible) to reduce ‘fly strike’ and infections.
  • Make sure the animal’s head is secure to prevent jerking during tagging.
  • Apply tags under hygienic conditions. Make sure the ear, tag and applicator are clean. You may want to consider using disinfection to clean your equipment and the area you are tagging in. You may also want to consider using an insecticide on your animal, but you must take care to follow the instructions for each product used so that you meet health and safety regulations and avoid residues in meat or milk. Check that the chemical you are using does not remove the print on the tag.
  • The tag should be placed through the ear, avoiding the main blood vessels and ridges of carti-lage. The different styles of tag are designed for different places in the ear. As a result, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific tag design. Remember to allow for growth when fitting loop tags.
  • When fitting two-piece plastic tags, always make sure the male part of the tag is fitted from the back of the ear as centrally as possible. After inserting the tag, the female part of the tag should be on the inside of the ear.
  • Store unused tags in a clean container.
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