All animals must be identified. Dogs and cats must have a registered USDA tag, a unique tattoo, or an acceptable collar with a unique number. This identification must remain on or with the dog or cat at all times. The University must be able to trace records on dogs and cats from birth or acquisition to three years after conclusion of the study.

Some species such as primates and rabbits are routinely tattooed in addition to having a cage card. This is to prevent mix-ups which may occur during cage change when cards must be moved. Rabbits are tattooed in the ear, primates on the chest or leg. In the case of rabbits, investigators should always check tattoo numbers when working with the animals to be sure that no mix-up has occurred.

Most other species are identified by a cage card containing pertinent information:

• Source

• Date of Arrival

• Strain or Stock

• Age or Date of Birth

• Name of Investigator

• Investigator Phone #

 
A separate page describes methods of identifying rodents.  Click here to access that page.