Be aware of state rules before taking your animal to the fair

Saint Paul, Minn - The Minnesota Board of Animal Health reminds livestock owners to review their responsibilities before exhibiting animals at their county fair or other events this summer. Animal health is a shared responsibility and is part of overall public health, especially at events that bring people and animals together.

“We are excited Minnesota fair season is underway and encourage Minnesotans to visit livestock exhibitions at their county fair this summer,” said Board of Animal Health senior veterinarian Dr. Courtney Wheeler. “We want to make sure that the experience is healthy for both the animals and people by reminding livestock owners of their responsibilities when exhibiting animals.”

In general, animals should have official identification and be free from infectious, contagious or communicable disease, including ringworm and warts. Any animals coming to Minnesota from another state need to be inspected by a veterinarian before movement, and move with a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and permit (if required) filed with the Board of Animal Health. Proper identification and records allow for a quick and thorough response to minimize spread of animal disease.

Not all forms of identification are approved by the Board and acceptable forms of official identification vary by species. You can find a breakdown of acceptable official identification on our website; www.mn.gov/bah/official-id. The Board’s website is also a great resource for species specific guidelines and requirements for exhibiting animals in Minnesota. Check out the exhibitions page for more details; www.mn.gov/bah/exhibitions.

Owners should be aware of any specific rules or expectations of the fair or event they’re attending. Additional questions or concerns regarding exhibition of livestock in Minnesota can be directed to the exhibition manager, official veterinarian or by calling the Board at 651-201-6826.

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