Top 5 most asked question …. Can my cow be registered? The simple answer is “yes”, but let’s dive a little deeper.
There are lots of registries in the animal kingdom. Almost every breed in every species has a record keeping entity they can utilize to maintain the records of that group. Every imaginable standard and rule has been tried in these registries. Each registry has a different focus. Some choose to focus on breed purity, some on breed standards (color or look), some on pedigree (avoiding line breeding), and the list goes on.
IMCBR is focused solely on the size of cattle. We understand that almost all miniature cattle are a cross of different breeds to accentuate the qualities most desirable to the breeder. At the time this article was written (2022) there’s no genetic testing available to determine breed purity. There is genetic testing that will connect an animal to a foundation group in a registry, but It does not show the percentage of a specific breed.
We understand that not every cow will have the luxury of impeccable records. Multiple generations of pedigree with photos of each animals is only a dream for most breeders. So, let’s get started somewhere. Like the Chinese proverb, “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second-best time is today”
You can submit the known facts and photos for your cow anytime. An incomplete profile is better than none at all. Each generation of offspring from the incomplete profiles will have a more complete picture of who they are, where they come from, and what their new owners can expect from them.
The value added to your farm’s future is tough to calculate. A buyer searching for a cow will likely find multiple options. Do you think they’ll choose a cow that comes from a completely unknown background, or one where they can see photos, DNA reports, and other vital info from the parents, grandparents, and beyond? Information and buyer confidence translates to added value.
The folks who don’t see any value in registering their herd or offspring of their herd are often flippers or cattle traders. Their business plan is to buy and sell cattle vs owning and maintaining a foundation herd. There is nothing wrong with this business plan at all, it is just very different from a breeder who keeps generations of cattle on his farm, working toward a genetic goal of size reduction, or other goals they may have.
As a buyer, you’ll want to do your due diligence and research no matter where you buy your cattle. A registered cow doesn’t necessarily mean you’re dealing with an honest breeder. There are lots of ways to cheat in any registry. The dishonest breeder doesn’t last long, but you don’t want to be caught up in their traps.
As always, we are here to serve. We look forward to answering your questions! The calf in the gallery photo is RWF Betsy (20245 – IMCBR).
