Friday 1 March 2019

Property Identification Code A Must For All Horse Owners

BY HOLLIE HUGHES

Hunter Local Land Services is reminding all horse owners they must have a Property Identification Code (PIC) number and in some cases a Transported Stock Statement (TSS), two important biosecurity measures which are crucial for monitoring and reporting outbreaks of viruses such as Equine Influenza.

Hunter Local Land Services District Vet Kristi Arnot says,

"With the Hunters agricultural show season well underway, as it is a legal requirment horse owners may be asked to supply their PIC number and even if your horse never leaves your property, you are still required to have a PIC."

If you are a current horse owner and do not have a PIC, there is a simple registration process via Local Land Services and it can usually be arranged in under 48 hours,

"The Hunter Local Land Services team set you up with a PIC quickly with the identification number not only ensuring the maintenance of Australia's disease free status for many dreadful viruses, but also crucial in emergency circumstances such as a fire or flood, so it is easily known where all animals that may need evacuation are located."

Horse owners are required to have a TSS for all horse movements unless the animals are being transported for racing, working or vetinary treatment purposes and are available individually or in booklets from Local Land Services.

"Please help ensure the health of your livestock and pets by adhering to the regulations and doing your bit to maintain these systems for the benefit of our community and environment."


Image Sourced: https://hunter.lls.nsw.gov.au/