what happened to actually branding your livestock? Is it not fashionable anymore?

H & P Maybe you really do know but if not there are lots of little implants in the ears of steers. Thats how they make them grow fast. Matter of fact if most folks knew what all goes in there they may not disagree so much with the system the government wants to require to keep a track on such things. Edit Backing up here..I am not in favor of any more government control. Did I say that right? If I had it my way, I would eat what I can produce and if you had something I wanted that I couldn't produce, I would try to make fair swap for it. And I would not need any one in Washngton helping me do it. It's the John Wayne syndrome.

It IS very reasonable (approx $18-$40 per kit?), and the more kits you purchase the cheaper it gets. Try to get everyone at your ranch to get in on it and buy in quantity. Our vet waived the call fee and did all the horses at once. It IS recommended to have a vet do it, as the needle is very large and you just don't want to mess around.. Rancher, implants in cattle? Will they be getting Botox next? (sorry, I couldn't resist!)

Any info on cost of this? Can't be a bad idea for sure. I have done implants on cattle for years and it's not a big deal but have no idea how this process works.

I've thought about it and asked my vet. It is extremely reasonable to chip a horse compared to our dogs. I will be chipping mine soon!!! Papers can be lost but not the chip especially if ppl don't know it's there!

Both of mine are microchipped. They weren't at the time we were evacuated, and that was one of the first things we were asked at the evacuation center "are they microchipped"? Each time the vet is out, I have them scanned, and there's piece of mind to see my contact info pop up along with alternate contact info. We're in a brush covered canyon, and we always seem to be on alert for something. I think anything you choose to identify your animals (of any species) so they can get back home is never a waste of money.

Is microchipping a horse a good idea, or just another way to waste a little money? How about a tatoo instead? Or maybe freeze branding?