Know the Ropes for Using Mexican-Origin Rodeo Steers!
Roping and rodeo, they 're true Texas sports. But like all competitions,
there are rules, particularly if you plan to use Mexican-origin
steers.
"Before being used for roping or rodeos, Mexican-origin steers
must have a negative cattle tuberculosis (TB) test in the U.S. by
an accredited private veterinary practitioner. The test must be
conducted within 12 months prior to being used for sport, "
explained veterinarian Dan Baca of the Texas Animal Health Commission
(TAHC), the state 's livestock and poultry health regulatory agency.
"The animals then must be retested annually thereafter. "
TB test documents must accompany the animals to events, where TAHC
animal health inspectors may check shipments for compliance with
testing requirements.
Dr. Baca, the TAHC 's TB epidemiologist, explained identification
for the tested animal can include a Mexican blue eartag or silver
USDA ear tag. Also acceptable are hide or horn brands or an ear
tattoo that will provide unique identification of the animal.
"A few weeks ago, the TAHC commissioners put additional regulations
'on hold ' for Mexican imported steers, due to budget and staffing
shortfalls. Since then, we have fielded a number of questions, and
we wanted to clarify the regulations that are in effect, "
he said.
Dr. Baca said he has been asked why Mexican-origin roping steers
must have a TB test in the U.S, while imported Mexican feeder steers
are exempt. "Mexican-origin steers are tested prior to being
transported to Texas. However, we know Mexico has a greater incidence
of TB infection, and it is possible for animals to be exposed to
infection prior to movement. Imported feeder steers aren 't being
targeted, because, once in the U.S., theirs is a fairly 'straight
path ' from pasture, feedlot and then to slaughter. Conversely,
imported rodeo or roping steers may be used for several years for
practice and events. During this time, these rodeo or roping animals
may be pastured with or near Texas cattle. If the imported
animals are infected with TB, they could spread infection to domestic
cattle. "
Dr. Baca said 54 TB-infected Mexican-origin steers were detected
at Texas slaughter plants during an 18-month period from 2001-2002.
"Six of the 54 infected animals were Mexican steers that had
been used for roping and rodeo, and we must control the risk posed
by these animals, " he said.
Dr. Baca pointed out that, in 2004, the TAHC commissioners will
review the testing requirements for imported rodeo and roping steers.
"If testing provides proof that these animals do not pose a
threat of disease, the commissioners will consider rescinding the
regulation, " he said. To aid the TAHC and the industry in
gathering accurate statistics, he said the
words "Mexican roping cattle " should be written on TB
test charts by the private veterinary practitioner conducting the
test.
Texas lost its TB-free status in June 2002, after two infected
herds were detected in 2001. "If we are to regain-and maintain-our
free status, hopefully by 2004, we must keep our domestic cattle
herds free of disease
and reduce risk wherever possible, " said Dr. Baca. "By
having imported rodeo and roping steers tested in the U.S. prior
to use, and requiring an annual retest, we may prevent infection
from spreading to a domestic cattle herd, " he said. "One
infected Texas cattle herd could prevent the entire state from regaining
TB-free status. "
Box l2966 Austin, Texas 78711
(800) 550-8242 FAX (512) 719-0719
Dr James Lenarduzzi - Acting Executive Director
For info, contact Carla Everett, information officer, at 1-800-550-8242,
ext. 710, or ceverett@tahc.state.tx.us
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