Write an article based on this "Position the applicator over the tagging site. Clamp the applicator shut firmly and quickly. Inspect the finished tag. Tag the other ear if desired. Let the cow go. Check the tagging site for signs of infection for the next 5-7 days."
Hold the applicator in your dominant hand and use the other to gently stretch and flatten the cow’s ear. The jaws of the device should be hovering above the soft central part of the ear you pinpointed earlier. Remember to keep to the fleshy tissue, and avoid cartilage, visible blood vessels, or other easily-damaged structures. Squeeze the handles together in 1 smooth motion. You’ll hear a loud click as the 2 halves of the tag come together. Once the tag is in place, release the handles and pull the applicator away. Speak to the cow in a soft voice and stroke its head and neck to keep it calm as its momentary discomfort passes, but avoid touching its ears.  You’ll need to be quick to get the tag in before the cow moves its head. Don’t put any pressure on the applicator handles until you’re ready to insert the tag. Failing to successfully apply the tag on the first attempt will only cause unnecessary pain. Check to make sure the tag is correctly positioned, is secure, and doesn’t appear to be causing the cow any discomfort. It may be a good idea to jot down the animal’s unique identifying code or number in case you need to adjust the tag later on. When using an electronic identification device (EID), it’s important that the visual panel (the face of the male piece) be situated on the outer part of the ear where it can be seen clearly and easily. Many ranchers tag both ears of their cattle to make them easier to read from either side. Some even insert an additional EID or RFID device along with traditional panel tags. If you decide that it’s necessary to apply a second tag, repeat the process the same way you did the first. Once the tag is in position, release the animal from the chute and free it from its lead rope. The newly-attached tag should remain in place for several years, allow you to track, identify, and account for the cow among the rest of your livestock more easily. Sturdy metal identifying buttons tend to stay put longer than flimsy plastic tags. Keep a close eye on the area around the tag. Any excessive redness, swelling, or discharge you observe should be treated as a serious concern. Applying a topical disinfectant like rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can go a long way in preventing infection, especially if your cattle spend a lot of time grazing in wet conditions.  Continue treating the tagging site with disinfectant for at least 3-5 days after the puncture has healed. If infection symptoms don’t begin to clear up within about a week, contact a large animal veterinarian for a more advanced course of treatment.