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Guidelines
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Livestock Show Guidelines
Stock Show Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in any livestock show, students must meet the following requirements:
1. Be enrolled in an agricultural science class
2. Be a member in good standing of the Forestburg FFA Chapter (Dues paid for current year)
3. Meet TEA guidelines for academic eligibility
4. Have paid entry fees on time and meet show requirements
5. Have approval of agricultural science teacher
Show Entries
· The agricultural science teacher will assist in making arrangements for participation in the Wise County Youth Fair and approved major shows. Entries in all other shows will be the responsibility of the student.
Travel to and from Shows
· Forestburg ISD Policy governs transportation procedures. Parents and Students should check with Agricultural Science Teachers for clarification before any livestock shows.
Discipline While at Shows
· Livestock shows are an extension of the Forestburg ISD Classroom; therefore students will be responsible for their personal conduct. All school rules are in effect at these shows.
Animal Care at Shows
· While at livestock shows, each student will be responsible for all feeding, care and grooming of his/her respective animal(s).
Responsibilities to Buyers
· The student will write, gain instructor approval, and deliver a Thank You note to the individuals who provide premium money or buy their project. An show photograph should be taken at the show and accompany the note when possible. Proof of delivery of the Thank You note must be given before the premium/auction check will be released to the student.
Equipment/Trailer Use
· Arrangements must be made for the use of any equipment belonging to the FFA. Clippers, blowers, etc. must be returned in a diligent manner so that others may be able to use them. The use of livestock trailers will be limited to the agricultural science teachers and others as deemed necessary. Anyone using a livestock trailer, should have their driver’s license and proof of insurance on file in the Superintendent’s office. Any equipment lost, stolen or destroyed while in the possession of a student will be replaced at the expense of the student.
Specific Show Rules
· It is the sole responsibility of the exhibitor to be familiar with all rules pertaining to his/her livestock project (this information may include weight limits, entry requirements, age, etc.) This information may be obtained from the Agriscience teacher or by visiting the web sites of the shows you are entering (See Website Reference pages).
Medications
· It is strictly prohibited to administer any type of vaccine, drug, spray, feed additive, or substance internally or externally without first receiving approval of the Agriscience teacher. All substances used on the animal must be approved for use on the animal or be recommended by the Agriscience teacher. All withdrawal dates must be followed. All students are expected to read and agree to abide by the Animal Welfare Agreement that can be found on the pages following.
Quality Counts
· It is now a requirement that all students exhibiting livestock at stock shows be registered in the Quality Counts Database. The exhibitor must visit the website: http://qc.wieghatgraphics.com/ and complete the test with a score of 80% or better.
Recommendations for Feeding and Care of Animals
· The feeding and care of the animals is a very important aspect of the livestock project. Feeding is responsible for at least 50% of the success or failure of a project. Below is a list of several proven practices which if done consistently, will lead to success in the show ring.
Daily Care/Feeding
· The daily routine of feeding and care is very important. All animals respond well to an organized routine. They should be fed twice daily in most cases. Normally this will require at least 30 minutes in the morning and thirty minutes in the evening (7:30-8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. at the project center). Your feeding program will be tailored to your particular animal as recommended by your Agriscience teacher. Your choice of feeds will be up to you based upon your particular situation. It is best to discuss with the Agriscience teachers the feeding program that you are going to use.
Halter Breaking or Teaching the animal to lead
· One of the more important considerations that arise early in the feeding period is teaching the calf, lamb or goat to lead with a halter or collar, or pig to walk with a whip. The animal must be worked daily. This is no easy task and sometimes can be very time consuming. Consistency is the key. Some animals learn more quickly than others do, but normally this can be accomplished in the first several weeks. The animal must also be trained to stand correctly and calmly. This is critical, as in some cases the judge may want to handle the animal. This practice will require several additional hours each week.
Disease Prevention
· Your animal’s pen must be kept clean on a daily basis. This will help reduce fly problems and help in keeping the animal clean. Regular de-worming for internal parasites and vaccinations for more serious diseases is recommended. A close examination of your animal’s feces, appetite, and attitude can help you assess its general health. All medications should follow withdrawal guidelines for market animals.
Approved Livestock Surgical Practices
· Many times it will be necessary to perform surgical procedures on livestock which will improve their general appearance. It is recommended to contact the veterinarian to assist with any de-horning, castration procedures, etc. However, please realize there is always the possibility for complications. The owner must accept all risks of illness or death of the animal.
Weighing on a Regular Basis
· Knowing your animal’s weight and weighing on a regular schedule is very important. Weight gain or loss is a good indicator of how well the animal is progressing. Animals should be weighed as often as feasible. It is particularly important near show time, as weight limits and weight classes are sometimes critical to placing the animal. It is also important to know the minimum and maximum weight limits for the species you are showing and the show you are entering. Please post your weights on the charts provided each week.
Grooming Livestock for the Show
· During the latter part of the feeding period, much time must be devoted to grooming the animal. Brushing and combing your animal are important daily routines. Washing and clipping will also be done one regular intervals to get a good view of how the animal is growing and progressing. In most cases, all animals will be clipped prior to the show to meet maximum hair requirements of the show that you are entering. This does not apply to lambs. Do not wash lambs until it is time to shear or show.
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