A herdnumber is an administrative device issued by my Department to a distinct herd for the purposes of disease control. A herdnumber may be issued if the herd in question fulfils the following criteria:
- The herd occupies a defined holding.
- There are separate entrances to the holding.
- The entry points onto other adjoining holdings/lands are permanently blocked.
- The perimeter fencing should be stock-proof and also prevent direct contact between stock on contiguous or adjoining holdings.
- There are independent and separate facilities such as: separate cattle crush or sheep/goat handling facilities; separate feeding and watering facilities; separate farm machinery.
- There are adequate facilities for the purpose of inspection, isolation, loading, unloading, marshalling, watering, feeding, treatment of sick/injured animals and housing.
- There are adequate facilities for animal bedding and the collection of manure and wastewater.
A person may apply to the local District Veterinary Office for a herdnumber by completing an application form ( ER1), which is available from the local District Veterinary Office or can be downloaded from my Department’s website at www.agriculture.gov.ie.