ICARR General Rules

ICARR general rules on animal identification

• 1. The recorded animal identity must be the animal's official identity in the member country and must be unique to that animal.
• 2. Where the identity of an individual animal is not unique, the record must so state (e.g. flock identities for goats/sheep). The identity number used for a flock or herd must be unique for that flock or herd.
• 3. The animals identity must be visible.
• 4. The animals identity should be unique and never be re-used.
• 5. The animals identification device/method, must comply with legislative requirements.
• 6. Animals, which lose their identity device must be re-identified and, wherever possible, with their original number, provided that there is evidence that the animal is being correctly identified (where this is not possible, a cross reference to the original number must be maintained).

ICARR standard methods of animal identification

• 1. The animal s identity number may be attached to the animal by a tag, tattoo, sketch, photo, brand or electronic device.
• 2. Animals moving from one member country to another should, wherever possible, continue to be identified using their original identity number and name.
• 3. In the case of imported animals, where the number has to be changed, the official records should also show the original number and name. The original number and name must be reported in Export Certificates, AI Catalogues and in catalogues of important shows and sales.