Polttomerkintä

Polttomerkintä, also known as branding in English, is a method of marking livestock by using a hot iron. This process is primarily used for identification purposes, allowing owners to distinguish their animals from others. The hot iron, often custom-shaped with letters or numbers, is pressed against the animal's hide, creating a permanent scar. This scar serves as a unique mark that endures throughout the animal's life.

The practice of polttomerkintä has a long history, dating back centuries. It was historically used in many agricultural societies as a reliable way to identify ownership of cattle, horses, and other farm animals. The heat from the iron cauterizes the skin, preventing infection and promoting scar formation. While effective, it can cause pain and distress to the animal.

In modern times, polttomerkintä is still employed, particularly in regions where other identification methods are less practical or more expensive. However, there is a growing trend towards alternative methods such as ear tagging, microchipping, and freeze branding, which are often considered less painful for the animal. The legality and regulations surrounding polttomerkintä vary by country and region, with some places restricting or prohibiting its use due to animal welfare concerns. The debate continues regarding the ethical implications and the necessity of this traditional marking technique in contemporary animal husbandry.