Spot Test

Spot tests are random DNA/SNP tests done simply to maintain the purity of the Hereford herd book. The Canadian Hereford Association registry system is programed to pick every 1000th female and every 500th bull registered. This is a process done by the computer, not the staff at the Canadian Hereford Association office.

If one of your animals is picked for a spot test, don’t panic. It is not a reflection of you or your breeding program, it’s simply a random selection. The CHA pays the testing fees.

You will receive a letter from the Canadian Hereford Association with explanation of how to proceed, and a DNA application for the selected animal will be included, as well as a DNA application for the dam if she does not have a DNA profile with us already.

A hair sample for the selected animal must be sent to the lab with the DNA application (if you receive a DNA application for the dam, a sample must be sent for her as well). The CHA requires a copy of your breeding records and calving records for the years the spot test animal was conceived and born. Copies of your original records are preferred, but if you only keep electronic records, the full electronic file must be sent, with headers and dates included, and not just the screenshots pertaining to those animals.

It is extremely important to remember that all breeding and calving records must be kept indefinitely, and that the CHA has the authority to request these records at any time.

October calves are turning 1 year - register them now for $35 April born calves are turning 6 months in October - register soon for $25