Identification
One emergency dog owners are never prepared for is a lost or stolen dog. It is vitally important that your rottie have two forms of identification: one on his collar and a permanent form. There are two types of permanent forms of identification: microchip and tattoo. Regardless of the type of permanent identification you use, you must have it registered with a national registry so if your rottie is ever lost or stolen, you can identify him.
Tags are a cheap form of identification. You can pick up tags through mail-order catalogues, on the Internet, or at large pet-supply stores for $4 to $8. No dog should be without up-to-date tags.
Tattoos are a permanent form of identification, costing between $5 and $25 to do, not including the registration fee. Groomers, veterinarians, and other dog professionals can tattoo your rottie. Be sure to have the tattoo placed inside the thigh. The tattoo is useless unless it is registered with a national database for pet recovery.
Have all your papers (AKC, health records, and so on) in one place in case there is ever an emergency. You never know when you may need to produce his vaccination records or other information. Also, keep a good photograph of your rottie in case he's lost and you have to show people what he looks like.
Microchips are a permanent form of identification, costing between $25 and $50 plus registration fee. There are several forms of microchips, but a popular one is the “Home Again” chip offered through the AKC. The microchip is useless unless it is registered with a national database for pet recovery.
While having identification on your rottweiler is important if he accidentally gets out, it's also important if you're separated from him in an accident or disaster. This is why your rottweiler should have two forms of identification on him at all times.
