Dover, Del. — The Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) has announced that it will no longer issue interstate certificates of veterinary inspection, commonly known as health certificates, for youth livestock exhibitors traveling to out-of-state events. Health certificates are required for animals crossing state lines and must be issued by an accredited veterinarian, a requirement that applies to all livestock species, including cattle, goats, swine, and sheep. Since 2023, the DDA has been phasing out this service, encouraging livestock owners to establish relationships with private veterinarians for both routine and emergency care. The department noted that having a dedicated veterinarian ensures better continuity of care and protects animals when they return to farms after events. Previously, the DDA provided health certificates for youth exhibitors, but it has reduced this service to avoid competing with private veterinary practices. In 2022, DDA issued 153 health certificates, while private veterinarians issued 35. By 2024, private practices had issued 199 certificates, while DDA issued only 32. The department explained that large-animal veterinary practices in Delaware and surrounding states now manage the certification process, allowing DDA to focus on other agricultural priorities.
