SUBSTITUTE FOR CATTLE BRANDING.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume 7, Issue 152, 2 March 1915, Page 7

SUBSTITUTE FOR CATTLE BRANDING.

Although two of the Stud Book Associations in Queensland report that they use tattooing for marking the registered cattle, yet many are doubtful whether the tattoo will last as long as branding. On this point, h wevev, Mr. T. M. Ware, of Meridale, writes as follows: —“We have used the tattoo system successfully at Meridale Farm for several years, having marked several hundred calves and cows during that time. We have cows seven years old with the number showing plainly on the inside of the ear. There are a few points that should be done right, but there is no question about the success of the marking. “The inside of the ear should be made clean before the number is put in the ear. After this is done, cover the spot where the number is to be placed with tattoo oil, using a small brush, then cover the type with some of the tattoo oil, and then make the imprint of the number desired. After this is clone, draw the finger gently over the place to rub the oil in, but be careful not to rub too much or too hard, as this will start the blood. For making this number we have a pair of pincers made with a slot in one of the jaws into which we sot type containing the number desired. The numbers are made with needle points and prick the car when the pincers are pressed together. By having some of the tat- ’ too oil on the ear and also on these needle points we are sure of getting the oil into the skin. Do not wash the ear after making the impression, but let it alone for several days, when you will see the desired number very plainly. After making one impression with any type, be sure that the type is cleaned before tattooing another calf, to avoid carrying Infection, which may develop into warts on the place where the number was made. 77