NPIP testing...my issues on the subject

[halo]

Now don't get me wrong, I think NPIP testing is an excellent program. Its efficient, its cheap, and it helps flock owners keep their flocks free of disease.

My issue with it is the false sense of security it gives buyers. I have read over and over, I ONLY buy from NPIP tested flocks! I know they are safe and healthy.

NPIP testing is only good for that day that they test. The flock that tests clean one day can be infected the next, and the flock owner can still sell their stock as NPIP tested. So please, buyers, please understand that it isnt a vaccination that clears a flock for that year. All it means is that the flock was tested on a particular day and was clean that day.

When you are buying birds from outside sources, whether NPIP tested or not, quarantine your birds as has been outlined in this forum. And just because a flock has been said to be NPIP tested, still be cautious when buying birds or eggs.

 

[Katy]

Very true ....and it only tests for pullorium typhoid also...nothing else. At least that how it is in my state. I think in some states that there are 1 or 2 other things they test for. I agree that it can give a false sense of security.

 

[speckledhen]

I agree completely. Too many folks think that NPIP means a flock is certified completely healthy--absolutely not the case. And pullorum and typhoid, the main (and sometimes only) diseases they test for are nowhere near as common as CRD/Mycoplasmosis or Coryza, etc.

 

[Buck Creek Chickens]

also NPIP is different in every state, some are very strict and others are very lax, some are not cheap its $80 in WI and that doesn't include testing.

 

[speckledhen]

And, one more important point: it relies on the participants to be on their honor to only buy from NPIP sellers. I know for a fact that many do not stick to the rules, which renders the program rather meaningless for them.

 

[Rockpile99]

I found a chart somewhere that listed what each state required for importing poultry. It looked like almost every state required NPIP. Is that really the case or was I reading it wrong? I'll try to remember where I found it and post the link.

If that is the case is everyone who is shipping birds/eggs out of state really NPIP cert? I find that hard to believe, and if NPIP is really just testing, not vaccinating, (sorry don't know what it is yet) shouldn't there be something that requires the testing done on a regular basis? If that is what the states are going by.

I'm not for or against the idea, just asking the question.

 

[Buck Creek Chickens]

NPIP is testing for Pullorum Typhoid, its a blood test that is done on site, some states have added other tests to that one, you really have to check with the state your in to find out, the tests are done by state vets or someone certified by the state, paperwork is fill out and a fee paid (price depends on the state) some include the test some don't. the testing is generally yearly

 

[crazyhen]

mine are tested for mycroplasms, pyllorum, and salmonella. Also viruses every 4 months. So far all is well. The virus testing does not cost just the other. Up to 25 hens can be checked for 5.00 . I thought that was ressonable. You can buy from other sources but they will need to be tested at 4 months also. In NC you can sell eggs on your property legally with npip but you will need a special permit to sell them off site. If mine keep up the good laying I may have to sell some. Also the price of feed is high. I am always running out of something. Gloria Jean

 

[kdcrws]

i'm gonna try my darndest to go by what SH has said in other threads and not buy started birds and only hatch my own from now on. i've read a few to many horror stories.... and with my handy dandy hovabator i have no reason to by started birds anymore.

but on another note i'm happy to have had my birds tested, i feel like i did a good thing by doing so.

 

[speckledhen]

There's nothing wrong with having your birds tested at all! It's just that the buyers of your birds need to understand what NPIP means and what it doesn't mean.

And yes, to Rockpile, about shipping birds and eggs-it's required by most states that before you ship eggs or birds into their state, that the shipper must be NPIP or have a vet's certificate, and possibly a separate permit specifically for that state. I would bet that most do not have those.