Founded in 1966, NDR is by far the largest and most respected registry of its kind. In fact, NDR developed the concept of registering a pet tattoo for protection against loss and theft. The founders of NDR lost a loved pet to thieves and spent weeks searching pounds, wholesale dealers and laboratories to no avail. Through their grief, National Dog Registry was formed. NDR is run by people whose lives are devoted to the welfare and well-being of animals everywhere. NDR follows a Code of Ethics that is second to none it its commitment to animal protection. We are now extending our networking capabilities by providing our services through the Internet. Our new site will have a good deal of additional information about our history, services, and successful pet recovery record.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About the National Dog Registry Tattoo Procedure

Q. How does the finder of a tattooed pet know who to call?

A. If you found a tattooed pet, who would you call? You'd call your vet, your local shelter, an animal control officer, the police, or a dog club. One of these organizations will know the NDR toll-free hotline number (800 NDR-DOGS). NDR sends out continual mailings to these and other organizations in an ongoing educational effort. NDR's toll-free number is advertised in most major animal publications. If you would like our information sent to an organization in your area, just let us know.

Q. Do I pay a $45 registration fee for each pet?

A. No! Your $45 dogs lifetime membership fee registers your tattooed pet, with any type number, for the rest of your dogs life. There is a nominal fee, $6, for changing information in your records. We have special programs for breeders, kennels, shelters, and communities.

Q. My veterinarian insists on using anesthesia. Is this necessary?

A. No! The tattoo procedure is absolutely painless and requires only 2-3 minutes to complete. Anesthesia is an unnecessary risk to your pet's health and is for the convenience of the veterinarian only. However, if your pet is having a procedure, such as a spay/neuter or teeth cleaning, it is a perfect time to tattoo.

Q. How long does a tattoo last?

A. If the proper equipment and procedure are used, the tattoo will last your pet's lifetime. Should a letter or number fade, your tattooer will touch it up for you free of charge. NDR recommends the use of special custom-designed tattoo equipment adjusted for your pet's skin. We do not recommend "tuna-can" shaped battery operated markers. They produce tattoos of varying (and often unacceptable) quality.

Q. My dog is aggressive. Should the tattooer use a muzzle?

A. Tell your tattooer about your dog's nature. A tattooer will frequently use a soft muzzle or stocking on the pet to avoid a problem.

Q. I have valuable show dogs. Will a tattoo disqualify them at shows?

A. National pure breed registries, such as the AKC, encourage a registered tattoo or implant for the identification and safety of the dog. No show judge should ever penalize your dog for a visible tattoo.

Q. My pet previously was registered with another registry. Will NDR accept it?

A. Of course! Since the inception of National Dog Registry in 1966, we have seen over 200 registries come and go. Many pets that once were with other systems need to be protected by NDR. If you're registered with a local system or one that has discontinued operation, contact NDR at once. While NDR actively networks with all other reputable registries, we believe our system is the most comprehensive and effective. No other registry works as hard to get your pet home to you.

Q. I'm confused by the claims made by other registries. Why is NDR best?

A. It is unfortunate that some other organizations distort the facts about their size, their expertise, their charges, and their abilities. NDR is operated by people whose lives are devoted to animal welfare. We are endorsed and used by many animal rights and welfare organizations. Many of the directors of these organizations are NDR Authorized Agents and tattooers. We have staffed a recovery hotline for more than a quarter of a million hours since 1966. An organization must remain singularly dedicated to amass a record like ours. The staff at NDR is expert at tracking information leading to the safe recovery of your pet.