Home

Learn about 
NACA's standing
Programs

NEWS RELEASE
Texas Animal Health Commission
Box l2966 *Austin, Texas 78711 *(800) 550-8242* FAX (512) 719-0719
Dr James Lenarduzzi * Acting Executive Director
For info, contact Carla Everett, information officer, at 1-800-550-8242,
ext. 710, or ceverett@tahc.state.tx.us

For Immediate Release--March 27, 2003

Know the Ropes for Using Mexican-Origin Rodeo Steers!

Roping and rodeo, they're true Texas sports.  But like all competitions,
there are rules, particularly if you plan to use Mexican-origin steers.

"Before being used for roping or rodeos, Mexican-origin steers must have a
negative cattle tuberculosis (TB) test in  the U.S. by an accredited
private veterinary practitioner.  The test must be conducted within 12
months prior to being used for sport," explained veterinarian Dan Baca  of
the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), the state's livestock and
poultry health regulatory agency.  "The animals then must be retested
annually thereafter."  TB test documents must accompany the animals to
events, where TAHC animal health inspectors may check shipments for
compliance with testing requirements.

Dr. Baca, the TAHC's TB epidemiologist, explained identification for the
tested animal can include a Mexican blue eartag or silver USDA ear tag.
Also acceptable are hide or horn brands or an ear tattoo that will provide
unique identification of the animal.

"A few weeks ago, the TAHC commissioners put additional regulations 'on
hold' for Mexican imported steers, due to budget and staffing shortfalls.
Since then, we have fielded a number of questions, and we wanted to clarify
the regulations that are in effect," he said.

Dr. Baca said he has been asked why Mexican-origin roping steers must have
a TB test in the U.S, while imported Mexican feeder steers are exempt.
"Mexican-origin steers are tested prior to being transported to Texas.
However, we know Mexico has a greater incidence of TB infection, and it is
possible for animals to be exposed to infection prior to movement.
Imported feeder steers aren't being targeted, because, once in the U.S.,
theirs is a fairly 'straight path' from pasture, feedlot and then to
slaughter. Conversely, imported rodeo or roping steers may be used for
several years for practice and events. During this time, these rodeo or
roping animals may be pastured with or near Texas cattle. If the imported
animals are infected with TB, they could spread infection to domestic
cattle."

Dr. Baca said 54 TB-infected Mexican-origin steers were detected at Texas
slaughter plants during an 18-month period from 2001-2002. "Six of the 54
infected animals were Mexican steers that had been used for roping and
rodeo, and we must control the risk posed by these animals," he said.

Dr. Baca pointed out that, in 2004, the TAHC commissioners will review the
testing requirements for imported rodeo and roping steers. "If testing
provides proof that these animals do not pose a threat of disease, the
commissioners will consider rescinding the regulation," he said.   To aid
the TAHC and the industry in gathering accurate statistics, he said the
words "Mexican roping cattle" should be written on TB test charts by the
private veterinary practitioner conducting the test..

Texas lost its TB-free status in June 2002, after two infected herds were
detected in 2001. "If we are to regain-and maintain-our free status,
hopefully by 2004, we must keep our domestic cattle herds free of disease
and reduce risk wherever possible," said Dr. Baca.  "By having imported
rodeo and roping steers tested in the U.S. prior to use, and requiring an
annual retest, we may prevent infection from spreading to a domestic cattle
herd," he said.  "One infected Texas cattle herd could prevent the entire
state from regaining TB-free status."

--30--