Registered Cattle Research
As you are researching for purchase of your registered cattle you will want to develop goals for your animals. Realize and try to stay with your limits or comfort zone. Be clear with yourself and with the breeders you talk with about what you are looking for. Most all experienced breeders can help you avoid a mismatch if you let them know your needs (Very Important). Selling registered cattle is their business and most are adept at their profession.
When researching registered cattle you should try to learn as much as possible about all breeds, their qualities and limitations. Read about the species and breed you are considering, talk with knowledgeable people (extension agents, neighbors, breeders, etc.) and sort through the information, look up the breed on the Internet, and visit herds when possible.
Consider Different Breeds of Registered Cattle
Take your time; review the above many times and consider different breeds of registered cattle. Each visit and/or conversation with a breeder can potentially modify your goals. Do this as many times as necessary for you to believe that you are taking the plunge responsibly. Remember that in our modern world these animals will depend on you for their very lives, even if they have the ability to survive on their own “in the wild.”
When you see some registered cattle you want to pursue buying, make contact with the breeder. If by telephone, give them your name, interest, other contact information and if necessary a time it will be convenient for you to receive a call back. Or send them an email before telephoning with your contact info. Most pedigree breeders will usually have registered cattle for sale. And remember if you give off an impression of being secretive about giving your name and contact information you will not be taken as someone who is a serious buyer prospect. You should always be ready to part with information as to your goals or interests and other considerations you are looking for, including your price range. Any honest breeder will have a price set for his registered cattle they are willing to sell and will not gouge you.
When you settle on any registered cattle of interest you should go see them in person if at all possible. If not possible then you should request pictures. If you have any special views or angles you want of the animals don’t be afraid to ask for them, be as specific as possible. Also the breeder may already have pictures available on the Internet.
Ask about registration papers for the animal and be plain about wanting the registration certificate transferred to you and that the transfer price is included in the purchase price. Be specific about the name and location of the breed association of your choosing and if you are not a member ask for information about becoming an active member in that association. It almost goes without saying that registered cattle should always be sold and papers transferred to the new owner at seller expense.
Buying your first group of registered cattle may require many questions? Breeders are willing to disclose any known drawbacks to a particular animal but may forget something you think is important. Also a drawback to you may not be considered a drawback by someone else.
When you make a choice for your registered cattle be willing to put down a forfeit deposit to hold your animals for a minimum time, usually not more than 30 days. Your deposit will make funds available to the breeder for a veterinary inspection and acquisition of export health papers that are always required to cross state lines. The breeder usually covers the expense for his states minimum requirements in the purchase price. A few states may have more stringent export/import requirements for registered cattle and if the buyer is from one of these states the extra expense is usually their responsibility.
The balance due on your registered cattle should always be paid in full within the holding time and the animal should be picked up within that time. Most breeders can often help you find a hauler that is experienced with registered cattle if it is not convenient for you to do your own hauling.
When planning your date to pickup the animals, keep in mind that a vet inspection paper is needed for out of state travel. You must plan ahead and allow enough time for this to be done. For the more expensive registered cattle or if the travel distance is long, a good practice to follow is to insure the animals through American Livestock Insurance Company, a great piece of mind for a small fee.
And above all good luck with your venture into the registered cattle industry.