Livestock Identification Services (LIS) is a not-for-profit organization responsible for providing livestock inspection services, maintaining Alberta’s livestock brand registry and administering licensing for livestock dealers. LIS works closely with Alberta’s cattle and horse industries, while also providing services related to other livestock species under provincial legislation.
Brand Books
LIS publishes the brand book for the province. These books can be purchased through LIS, and historical versions dating back to 1888 are also available online. Brand books provide a record of registered cattle and horse brands in Alberta and can be an interesting resource for livestock owners and anyone interested in Alberta’s agricultural history.
Legislation
LIS operates under the Livestock Identification and Commerce Act (LICA) which is a consolidation of several pieces of legislation regarding livestock identification and inspection. This Act covers the brand registry services and licensing for livestock dealers.
In addition to working under LICA, LIS is also delegated certain responsibilities under the Stray Animals Act.
Reuniting Lost or Stray Livestock
LIS maintains a database of all missing or stolen cattle and horses. During inspections, LIS inspectors will look for these missing or stolen animals and work with the RCMP as needed. Missing or stolen livestock can be reported by contacting the local LIS Field Office and completing a missing or stolen livestock form.
Stray livestock found on private property or highways are governed by the Stray Animals Act. If the owner of the animal is known to you and it is an isolated occurrence, LIS recommends contacting the owner directly and arranging for the animal to be collected.
If the stray animal is not known to you, LIS should be contacted. LIS can assist with locating the owner and making arrangements for the return of lost animals. If livestock are found on a highway, LIS may capture and impound the animals until they can be returned to their owner.
To report missing, stolen or stray livestock, contact your nearest LIS Field Office. Field Office contact information and reporting forms are available on the LIS website.
Learn More
- Livestock Identification Services: LIS website
- Report Stray Livestock: Contact information
- Missing, Stolen and Stray Livestock: Information and reporting forms
- Alberta Brand Books: Current and historical brand books
- Legislation: Livestock Identification and Commerce Act and Stray Animals Act