1. (a) Definitions. The following words and terms, when used in this section, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

   1. (1) Breeding Swine--Swine that are six months of age or older (sexually mature, intact animals) and that are used or intended to be used for breeding.
   2. (2) Change of Ownership--Taking possession of breeding swine as a result of a gift or by some other form of remuneration.
   3. (3) Test or Testing--Collection and examination of blood samples taken from swine by using recognized tests for Pseudorabies and Swine Brucellosis infection.

2. (b) Testing Prior to Change of Ownership.

   1. (1) All breeding swine shall be tested negative for Pseudorabies and Swine Brucellosis within 30 days prior to change of ownership in Texas unless hot weather prevents testing at a livestock market. Swine from herds with a current disease-free status are exempt from this test requirement.
   2. (2) Blood will be collected by TAHC or USDA, VS Regulatory personnel or Texas licensed, USDA Accredited Veterinarians or their employees and tested using tests referenced in current national disease program standards.
   3. (3) Breeding Swine from which blood was collected at a livestock market may be moved from the market to a recognized slaughter facility without receiving test results. No permit or Hold Order is required for movement to a recognized slaughter facility.
   4. (4) Breeding Swine from which blood was collected at a livestock market may be moved from the market to the premise of the buyer under Hold Order pending results of the test and should be isolated from other swine until test results are known.
   5. (5) Each animal tested shall be identified by a USDA Veterinary Services approved identification eartag (metal, plastic, or other) that conforms to the nine-character alpha-numeric National Uniform Eartagging System.

Source Note:The provisions of this §55.1 adopted to be effective September 6, 1998, 23 TexReg 8831.