Last updated 16 Mar 2008
 

GSDCA-WDA TATTOO & DNA PROGRAMS

The GSDCA-WDA has implemented the Tattoo and DNA programs in support of the German Shepherd Dog breed program. They are designed to supplement the established AKC DNA program and to provide a certified record of tattoo identification on each dog's registration papers.

TATTOO PROGRAM

In order to enter and compete in GSDCA-WDA events all German Shepherd Dogs over 12 months of age must have tattoo identification. German Shepherd Dogs that were born in the United States on or after January 1, 2005, must have their tattoo number certified on their original 4-generation AKC pedigree. Three-generation AKC pedigrees for German Shepherd Dogs born prior to January 1, 2005 will continue to be accepted for certification and for entry into GSDCA-WDA events. AKC pedigrees that have been tattoo certified by USCA will be accepted at all GSDCA-WDA events provided they meet the 3 or 4-generation requirement above.

The purpose of this program is to record the permanent identification of German Shepherd Dogs born in the United States that are registered with the American Kennel Club. Once the tattoo number is properly recorded with the GSDCA-WDA Office, it will be added to the original Certified American Kennel Club four-generation pedigree and then embossed with the official GSDCA-WDA seal.

All dogs must have a legible tattoo, preferably in the right ear. Tattoos must be verified, and the Tattoo Verification Form completed by a licensed Veterinarian. Tattoos should be at least five numbers or letters, or any combination of numbers and letters. Each dog must be assigned its own tattoo number. Do not use the dog’s name, your name, or your social security number.

A series of numbers and letters that designate your kennel name, the puppy’s birth year, the litter number (letter), and the number born or something similar is the common practice and is suggested.
Example: HS03W3: HS=Haus Smith, 03=born in 2003, W=W litter, 3=3rd puppy born

Instructions:

1) Complete your portion of the Veterinarian Verification of Tattoo form
2) Have your Veterinarian complete his/her portion
3) Complete the Application for Tattoo Certification
4) Enclose payment. Check or Money Order made payable to the GSDCA-WDA
5) Enclose the original Certified AKC 4 generation pedigree
6) Enclose a copy of the AKC Registration
7) Send Certified or Express USPS, UPS, FedEx or some other traceable means to:

Joy Schultz
GSDCA-WDA Office
732 Lindley Blvd.
DeLand, FL 32724

Please keep copies of the documents for your records. The GSDCA-WDA will not be responsible for documents lost in the mail. The original AKC pedigree will be returned to you Certified U.S. Postal Service.

NOTE: The above Guidelines do not apply to foreign born German Shepherd Dogs with an FCI Kennel Club registration document that includes a tattoo number. However, if the registration document does not include a tattoo number then the above Guidelines for registering the tattoo number with GSDCA-WDA will apply with the exception that the original FCI Kennel Club pedigree must be submitted.

Rev 1/20/0

DNA PROGRAM

The GSDCA-WDA encourages all members to obtain DNA certification of their dogs by taking advantage of the American Kennel Club's well maintained DNA program.  (The AKC requires DNA certification of AKC registered stud dogs.)

AKC keeps the DNA of your dog on file.  AKC pedigrees generated after the dog has been DNA certified will note the DNA Certification and Number.  For dogs DNA’d after the AKC has generated the pedigree, the DNA information can be added and certified by GSDCA-WDA office.  To do so, you will need to do the following:

    1. Complete the Application for DNA Certification
    2. Enclose the original three or four generation AKC Certified Pedigree
    3. Enclose a copy of the AKC DNA Certificate
    4. Enclose payment. Check or Money Order made payable to GSDCA-WDA
    5. Send Certified or Registered U.S. Postal Service, UPS, or FedEx to:

Note:  Please keep copies of the documents for your records.  The GSDCA-WDA will not be responsible for documents lost in the mail.  The original AKC pedigree will be returned to you Certified U.S. Postal Service.

webmaster - prody