Why is a National Animal Identification System Needed?
A national animal identification system is needed to help protect American animal agriculture from foreign or domestic disease threats. Fundamental to controlling any disease threat is a system that can quickly and effectively identify individual animals or groups; the premises where they are located; and the date of entry to that premise. Identifying all food and livestock animals will enhance disease preparedness by allowing the U.S. to identify and locate any animals exposed to disease and will facilitate stopping the spread of that disease. In addition, it will provide benefits to animal owners in terms of market access and consumer demand. The USAIP will help uphold the reputation of the U.S. of having healthy animals and will promote continued confidence in agricultural and animal products.
