IDENTIFICATION AND RECORDS
Adult dogs obtained from commercial dealers must be identified either by an official USDA collar tag or by a tattoo. The tags may be removed at the research facility or used to continue the identification of the dog. If the tag is removed it must be maintained for one year unless requested earlier by a USDA official.
USDA collar tag
All dogs in the research facility must be individually identified by a tag or a tattoo. A tattoo is recommended because it is easy to read and durable if properly applied. The procedure is performed with tattoo pliers while the animal is anesthetized.
Applying a tattoo in a dog's ear