Keeping up with S.D. livestock import requirements for dairy cattle

As the dairy industry within South Dakota seeks to grow in numbers and production producers will also need to be aware of updated importation requirements of dairy animals into South Dakota.

In evaluating the general requirements for all livestock it is important to note that all livestock entering South Dakota must have an official health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian.

There are four major areas of classifications in regards to dairy animals. Each has specific requirements for importation given below or which can also be found on the S.D. Animal Industry Board website or you may contact the S.D. Animal Industry Board directly at 605-773-3321 if further questions arise.

Dairy Calves: (2 Months and Under)

1. Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and permit number.

2. Individual official ID (metal ear tag or RFID#’s) listed on Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.

3. Must be consigned and delivered directly to the consignee’s premises where they are under quarantine for 60 days. The calves may not be resold during the quarantine period.

Dairy Calves 2-6 Months Old:

1. Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and permit number.

2. Individual official ID (metal ear tag or RFID#’s) listed on Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.

Dairy Calves 6 Months and Older:

1. Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and permit number.

2. Individual official ID (metal ear tag or RFID#’s) listed on Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.

3. Sexually intact animals (excludes steers and spayed heifers) must be negative to an official test for Tuberculosis within 60 days prior to entering South Dakota.

Dairy Bulls and Females:

1. Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and permit number.

2. Individual official ID (metal ear tag or RFID#’s or breed registration tattoo) listed on the Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.

3. Negative to an official test for Tuberculosis within 60 days prior to entering South Dakota.

4. Breeding cows and bulls from Idaho must have negative Brucellosis test within 30 days of import.

In regards to Trichomoniasis regulations for cows, no non-virgin and non-pregnant female cattle may be imported, loaned, leased, nor acquired for breeding purposes in South Dakota. However, non-virgin and non-pregnant female cattle registered with a breed registry, or to be used in confined dairy operations, may be exempt from the provisions of this section as determined by the board (S.D. Animal Industry Board). Non-virgin and non-pregnant female cattle, each accompanied by its own offspring and prior to rebreeding are exempt from the provisions of this section.

Cattle of Mexican or Canadian origin will need to follow the guidelines for import given by the S.D. Animal Industry Board, which are also listed on the website or you may contact the S.D. Animal Industry Board directly at 605-773-3321.