Register as a Pig Herd Owner

You must register with the Department of Agriculture and get a pig herd number in order to own or trade in pigs. This applies to anyone who wishes to own pigs, however few.

The National Pig Identification and Tracing System (NPITS) involves the identification of all pigs that are moved off farm by either an ear tag or a slap mark. It also involves the identification of breeding stock with an individual number. This system requires pig owners to be registered and to comply with rules on pig welfare.

Stock-keepers should be knowledgeable and competent in a wide range of animal health and welfare skills, which should include:

• handling skills
• preventing and treating lameness
• preventing and treating internal and external parasites
• giving medicines by injection
• providing appropriate care to sick and injured pigs
• management of pigs to minimise aggression
• care of the sow and her litter

After your application has been received, the local District Veterinary Office will then be in contact to arrange an inspection of your premises for suitability.

All pig movements are recorded on a central movement database. Tags and slap marks must be ordered from an approved tag company. To notify a pig movement contact Capita Customer Solutions (CCS) on Lo-Call number 0818-191000 or 023-8832882.

If you wish to register you should read the pig welfare requirement booklet and then download the application form below. Return the completed application to your local District Veterinary Office .

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• National Pig Census 2015 to 2019