Following the Canadian Sheep Identification Program (CSIP) is mandatory under the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Health of Animals Regulations. Information can be found on the Canadian Sheep Federation and CFIA websites. All sheep must have an approved CSIP ear tag before being sold or transported off the premises where it was born, even temporarily for e.g., a veterinary clinic visit or an exhibition. Information on buying and placing tags can be found on the Canadian Sheep Federation website. Imported sheep must be reported to CFIA, and if not already bearing an ear tag considered equivalent to a Canadian approved tag, must have one applied within 7 days
upon arrival. A non-CSIP-approved ear tag, ear notching, or tattoo can also be used for on-farm identification. Branding is not acceptable in Canada. Livestock Premises Identification (LPID) is an important aspect of traceability, enabling a more rapid respond to emerging outbreaks and emergencies (e.g., floods). Registering your premises will help protect Canadian livestock and industry in the event of an outbreak and it is free.