State to stop issuing health certificates for youth livestock exhibitors leaving Delaware

The Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) has announced that it will no longer issue interstate certificates of veterinary inspection (CVI), also known as health certificates, for youth livestock exhibitors traveling to out-of-state events.

The change, effective immediately, affects youth participating in shows, exhibitions, and sales outside Delaware.

CVI’s are official documents issued by a licensed veterinarian that certifies the health status of an animal. It’s often required for the interstate or international transportation of animals. The CVI provides detailed information about the animal’s health, including descriptions of the animal, health status, test results, compliance with regulations, and more.

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Interstate health certificates are required for animals crossing state lines but are not necessary for livestock shown within Delaware.

Federal regulations mandate that an accredited veterinarian must issue these certificates for livestock of all species, not just small animals.

While DDA has long issued health certificates for youth exhibitors, the department has been phasing out this service over the past two years.

The goal is to encourage young livestock owners to establish a relationship with a licensed veterinarian for routine care and emergency support.

According to DDA, having a veterinarian available, even for short-term ownership, ensures continuity of care and provides guidance on best practices for animal handling, protection during shows, and emergency situations.

As part of the transition, DDA has noted a shift toward private veterinary practices handling health certificates.

In 2022, DDA issued 153 health certificates, while private practices issued just 35 across four livestock species.

By 2024, private veterinarians had issued 199 health certificates, compared to only 32 from DDA. Many livestock owners have opted to seek multiple certificates throughout the show season, further reinforcing the trend toward private veterinary services.

The transition also aligns with DDA’s recognition of the important role large-animal veterinarians play in Delaware and surrounding states.

In phasing out its involvement, DDA aims to avoid competing with private practices that offer similar services.

For exhibitors who need a health certificate, DDA has provided a list of veterinarians on its website who offer these services. Click here to view.

In addition to overseeing livestock health certificates, the Office of the State Veterinarian remains responsible for regulating foreign animal diseases and managing the movement of animals in and out of Delaware.

If a veterinarian identifies an issue with livestock, they are required to notify the state veterinarian, who may implement measures such as quarantines to prevent the spread of disease.

This change marks a shift in the way Delaware handles livestock health certifications, further emphasizing the importance of local veterinary care and collaboration.