According to the Animal Identification Act (No 6 of 2002), “marking” is the placement of an identifying mark on an animal but excludes marks on the horn or hoof, paint marks, ear tags, notches and holes. That leaves branding and tattooing with various livestock equipment items you will need.
 
Keeping animals for financial gain requires registration with the Department of Agriculture, and failure to do so is a crime. In addition, marking animals without being registered, including marking otherwise as permitted by the Act, is an offense.
 
When to Brand
Calves: > 6 months and before permanent incisors. MUST be marked by 6 months old.
Sheep, goats, pigs: Never
Ostriches: > 6 months
Horses: > 12 months
 
Brand with a single iron to ensure correct pressure for each letter at a time.
Hot irons are placed on skin without extra pressure and only long enough to get a light brown colour (too long causes tissue damage), ensuring a permanent brand mark.
 
Time guide
Calf: 1 second
Young cattle/breeds with thin skin: 1,5 seconds
Adult cattle: 3 seconds
 
Burnt skin and hair creates an ash layer on branding letters. Brush with a steel brush before returning it to the oven. Steam causes blotched marks so never brand on wet skin.
 
Choose the right equipment
Bronze-alloy letters heats up fast with excellent heat retention.
Stainless-steel letters with a medium-length handle ensures a better feel for the branding process.
Branding ovens fit on a standard gas bottle.