The Oregon Department of Agriculture has announced changes in travel requirements for horses, mules, and asses effective July 1.

Owners of equine no longer are required to get a state- issued brand inspection certificate prior to transporting their animals to another state.

The change is a result of Senate Bill 236 signed into law by Gov. Ted Kulongoski. The legislation also ends ODA inspection of horses for ownership at auction markets.

Those who travel extensively throughout the western states still will be able to get an annual or lifetime brand inspection certificate for their equine on a voluntary basis. ODA's Brand Inspection Program will provide the inspection and certificate on request. Most western states still require a brand inspection certificate prior to leaving that state.

The new regulations do not affect Oregon law that requires the recording of brands with ODA and the enforcement of equine theft laws that currently are in place.

For more information or to contact an ODA brand inspector for a voluntary inspection, those interested can call (503) 986-4681.