04/16/2025
The Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) has announced updated animal exhibition requirements to reduce the risk of disease transmission in livestock. These new rules apply to beef and swine exhibitors, who will now be required to provide a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) completed by an accredited veterinarian within 30 days of the show. The CVI should list the shows where the animal will be exhibited during the 30-day time frame, and both printed and electronic versions of the CVI are acceptable.
In addition to the CVI, all projects must also have an official form of identification. The USDA provides guidance on official identification options, which include:
📌Official National Uniform Ear tagging System (NUES) tag – This tag begins with the official state number 43 for Missouri and is allocated by USDA-accredited veterinarians.
📌Official Animal Identification Number (AIN) tag – Consists of 15 digits, starting with 840 for the United States.
📌Visual or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) – Available from the manufacturer.
📌Registration tattoo and registration papers – From the appropriate breed association.
📌For unregistered swine – An ear notch, along with farm records.
These identification methods are designed to ensure that animals can be tracked and monitored effectively.
Dr. Steve Strubberg, Missouri State Veterinarian, emphasized that the rule changes aim to prevent disease outbreaks in Missouri herds by ensuring that animals are inspected before being exhibited. This helps to avoid the spread of illnesses that could be transmitted back to farms after shows.
This CVI and identification requirement is already in place for sheep and goat exhibitors. Exhibitors are encouraged to work closely with local veterinarians, 4-H leaders, or FFA advisors to comply with the new rules before fairs or exhibitions.
For any questions, fair leadership, 4-H leaders, or FFA advisors should reach out to the Missouri Department of Agriculture's Animal Health team at (573) 751-3377 or via email at [email protected]