All live dogs...shall be
identified by an official tag of the type described in Sec. 2.52 affixed to the
animal's neck by means of a collar made of material generally considered
aceptable to pet owners...or shall be identified by a distinctive and legible
tattoo marking acceptable to and approved by the Administrator.
/2/...The use of certain types of
chains presently used by some [Class A Licencees] may also be deemed
acceptable...on an individual basis.... The use of materials such as wire,
elastic, or sharp metal that might cause discomfort or injury to the dogs ...
is not acceptable.
Sec. 2.51 describes the Form of
official tag:
The official tag shall
be made of a durable alloy such as brass, bronze, or steel, or of a durable
plastic. Aluminum of a sufficient thickness to assure the tag is durable and
legible may also be used. The tag shall be one of the following shapes:
(1) Circular in shape and not less
than 1\1/4\ inches in diameter, or
(2) Oblong and flat in shape, not
less than 2 inches by \3/4\ inch and riveted to an acceptable collar.
(b) Each tag shall have the
following information embossed or stamped on so that it is easily readable:
(1) The letters ``USDA'';
(2) Numbers identifying the State
and dealer, exhibitor, or research facility (e.g., 39-AB); and
(3) Numbers identifying the animal
(e.g., 82488).
(c) Official tags shall be serially
numbered. No individual dealer or exhibitor shall use any identification tag
number more than once within a 5-year period.
