Electronic methods of identity verification
Article 18
1. The issuing body shall ensure that at the time it is first identified in accordance with Article 12, a transponder is implanted in the equine animal. 2. The transponder shall be implanted parenterally under aseptic conditions between the poll and withers in the middle of the neck in the area of the nuchal ligament. However, the competent authority may authorise the implantation of the transponder at a different place on the neck of the equine animal, provided that such alternative implantation does not: (a) compromise the welfare of the equine animal; (b) increase the risk of migration of the transponder compared to the method referred to in the first subparagraph. 3. Member States shall lay down the minimum qualification required for the intervention provided for in paragraph 2 or designate the person (‘the qualified person’) or profession entrusted with such operations. 4. Issuing bodies referred to in Article 5(1)(a) and (b) may require that equine animals which were identified by use of an alternative method of identity verification provided for in Article 21 are to be marked by implantation of a transponder for the purpose of the entry or registration of equidae in studbooks or the registration of registered horses for competition purposes. 5. Issuing bodies referred to in Article 5(1) and the competent authority may require that equine animals deemed to be identified in accordance with Articles 4(2) and 43(1), are to be marked by the implantation of a transponder for the purpose of identity verification in cases where: (a) previously implanted and recorded transponders have ceased to function; (b) the inherent or acquired mark recorded as the alternative method of identity verification referred to in Article 21 is no longer suitable for that purpose; or (c) the competent authority considers it necessary to ensure identity verification.