HEALTH PAPERS

By DeAnn Dible, RVT

When moving livestock across state lines, it is very important to have the proper paperwork. The paperwork requirements pertain to both large and small animals. State officials now require complete information on the health certificates, whereas in the past they took a more lenient stance.

If the state animal health department does not accept the paper as written, then they contact the State of Kansas . At that point, the Kansas office will then notify the veterinarian that signed the paper. When this happens, it could reflect negatively on the veterinarian's license.

Listed below are some helpful hints:

•  When exporting out of Kansas – Check with your veterinarian on requirements.

•  When importing into Kansas – the person on the other end needs to have the proper information.

•  Call promptly to get testing information, i.e. coggins, brucellosis, TB, trichomoniasis

•  If only a health check is necessary, call several days before you need the papers.

•  Bring all information needed for papers.

•  Small Animals: Name, age, vaccinations

•  Large Animals: Number of animals, age, sex, breed, weight, registration numbers, and identification—tags, brands

•  Complete address and phone number for both shipper and receiver. If you are feeding livestock for someone else, we will need both your address and theirs.

These simple suggestions can make obtaining a health certificate easier for all parties involved. If you have any questions, please call us at Oakley Veterinary Service, P.A.