Scrapie & Official ID
HSFGR recognizes existing official Scrapie identification, including registry tattoos from APHIS-approved registries (with required paperwork). Until HSFGR is approved by APHIS for registry tattoos, members are responsible for ensuring animals have official Scrapie ID for interstate movement (for example: USDA tags or APHIS flock ID tattoos), as required.
Scrapie & Official Identification for Goats
Scrapie is a federally regulated disease program for sheep and goats. If goats move across state lines, attend certain events, or enter certain channels, they may be required to have official identification (official ID) and the right paperwork.
HSFGR supports compliance and good recordkeeping. This page explains what counts as official ID, what move-over goats need, what HSFGR-born goats need, and what to bring to shows.
What counts as “Official ID” for goats?
USDA APHIS recognizes several common forms of official ID for goats, including:
Official sheep/goat ear tags (including official serial tags)
Official RFID “840” tags (purchased from approved manufacturers; requires a premises/flock ID)
Official flock ID tattoos that include the APHIS-assigned flock ID number plus an individual animal number unique within the flock
Legible registry tattoos when accompanied by the correct paperwork (see below)
Electronic implantable devices (EID) in certain circumstances, with required paperwork/restrictions
Important limitation: Tattoos may not be accepted as the only official ID for animals moving to slaughter or through a livestock market.
Move-Over Goats from an Approved Registry
If your goat already has a registry tattoo from an APHIS-approved registry, that tattoo can be used as official ID for interstate movement as long as the animal is accompanied by the correct documents.
Bring one of the following (best practice: keep copies in your trailer binder):
Registration certificate in the current owner’s name, OR
Registration certificate + completed transfer into the current owner’s name (dated within the required window), OR
A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) listing the registry/tattoo (and origin/current owner details if needed)
Timing note: Some APHIS guidance mentions 60 days in one context and 30 days in others. To stay on the safe side, HSFGR recommends treating 30 days as the safe standard unless your veterinarian/state requirements specify otherwise.
HSFGR practice for move-overs: We record existing tattoos exactly as submitted (right/left ear) and do not re-identify animals. This preserves traceability.
Goats Born and Registered in HSFGR
HSFGR’s tattoo format mirrors common registry practice for consistency:
Right ear = herd/prefix
Left ear = year code + number
However, until HSFGR is approved by APHIS as an “approved registry tattoo” program, HSFGR tattoos should be treated as registry identification, not automatically “official scrapie ID” for interstate movement.
For HSFGR-born goats that need official ID for interstate movement, owners should use APHIS-recognized official ID such as:
Official ear tag (including 840 RFID), or
APHIS flock ID tattoo (APHIS flock ID number + individual animal number)
How to Request Official Tags or a Flock/Premises ID
To request official sheep/goat tags, a flock/premises ID, or both, call:
1-866-USDA-TAG (866-873-2824)
You will be routed to your state office.Tip: If you already have a registered herd prefix, you may ask APHIS to assign it as part of your flock ID number.
What to Bring to a Show or Event
Requirements vary by state and by show, but this checklist keeps you covered:
Bring with the goat:
The goat’s official ID (tag/tattoo/EID)
Supporting paperwork if using a registry tattoo (certificate/transfer/CVI)
A flashlight/headlamp to help read tattoos
If crossing state lines: ask your vet about a CVI and state import requirements
Summary
Move-over goats from an APHIS-approved registry: keep their registry tattoo + carry the required paperwork.
HSFGR-born goats (for now): use APHIS flock ID tattoo or official ear tags for official ID needs.
Need tags or a flock/premises ID? Call 1-866-USDA-TAG.
Livestock markets/slaughter channels: tattoos alone may not be accepted.
This page is provided for general guidance. Always follow current federal/state requirements and your event’s rules.