How tags are applied will have an influence on the risk of infection and retention rates.
ADVERTISEMENT
Tags applied in the incorrect manner combined with humid weather can be a recipe for disaster and lead to ears becoming infected. Buyers of ewe lambs with breeding potential in marts are particularly conscious as to the way in which tags are applied. Some say there are greater issues this year given a second tag has to be applied, while others point to the fact that many farmers are new to applying wrap-around tags as creating some issues.
The way sheep are tagged will have a significant influence on tag loss rates and the risk of ear infections. The advice for applying button tags is to insert the tag midway in height of the ear taking care to avoid cartilage (can be seen on the underside of the ear) and at a distance of about one third of the way along the animal's ear, measuring from the head out. This distance may need to be extended in breeds with thicker ears as there should be some room for the tag to rotate and for air to circulate around the site of application.
Tag manufacturers are keen to advise farmers who may be new to applying wrap-around tags to take care as to the way they are applied, particularly in young sheep that are not going directly for slaughter. They advise applying the tag in a manner that leaves room between the edge of the ear and the tag. This is to ensure tags do not become too tight as animals mature and ears grow.
ADVERTISEMENT
The general recommendation is to allow 4mm to 5mm for ear growth and again more may be necessary for breeds with large or thick ears. Wrap-around tags are advised to be applied at the top of the ear and similarly to a button tag – about a third of the distance out from the head, taking care not to pierce cartilage. The male part that pierces the ear should be applied on the outer part, leaving less risk for tags to get caught.
Where at all possible, tag when ears are dry and ensure the sheep is securely restrained. Disinfecting tags and the ear is also beneficial.
This content is available to digital subscribers and loyalty code users only. Sign in to your account, use the code or subscribe to get unlimited access.
The reader loyalty code gives you full access to the site from when you enter it until the following Wednesday at 9pm. Find your unique code on the back page of Irish Country Living every week.
CODE ACCEPTED
You have full access to the site until next Wednesday at 9pm.
CODE NOT VALID
Please try again or contact support.
Tags applied in the incorrect manner combined with humid weather can be a recipe for disaster and lead to ears becoming infected. Buyers of ewe lambs with breeding potential in marts are particularly conscious as to the way in which tags are applied. Some say there are greater issues this year given a second tag has to be applied, while others point to the fact that many farmers are new to applying wrap-around tags as creating some issues.
The way sheep are tagged will have a significant influence on tag loss rates and the risk of ear infections. The advice for applying button tags is to insert the tag midway in height of the ear taking care to avoid cartilage (can be seen on the underside of the ear) and at a distance of about one third of the way along the animal's ear, measuring from the head out. This distance may need to be extended in breeds with thicker ears as there should be some room for the tag to rotate and for air to circulate around the site of application.
Tag manufacturers are keen to advise farmers who may be new to applying wrap-around tags to take care as to the way they are applied, particularly in young sheep that are not going directly for slaughter. They advise applying the tag in a manner that leaves room between the edge of the ear and the tag. This is to ensure tags do not become too tight as animals mature and ears grow.
The general recommendation is to allow 4mm to 5mm for ear growth and again more may be necessary for breeds with large or thick ears. Wrap-around tags are advised to be applied at the top of the ear and similarly to a button tag – about a third of the distance out from the head, taking care not to pierce cartilage. The male part that pierces the ear should be applied on the outer part, leaving less risk for tags to get caught.
Where at all possible, tag when ears are dry and ensure the sheep is securely restrained. Disinfecting tags and the ear is also beneficial.
If you would like to speak to a member of our team, please call us on 01-4199525.
Link sent to your email address
We have sent an email to your address. Please click on the link in this email to reset your password. If you can't find it in your inbox, please check your spam folder. If you can't find the email, please call us on 01-4199525.
ENTER YOUR LOYALTY CODE:
The reader loyalty code gives you full access to the site from when you enter it until the following Wednesday at 9pm. Find your unique code on the back page of Irish Country Living every week.
SHARING OPTIONS