Returning from a two-week work trip, you were excited to reunite with your dog, who stayed at a 24/7 daycare. But you noticed a surprising blue tattoo on her stomach—and now you’re confused and worried about what it means.
Why pets are tattooed:
Tattoos in pets are often used for ID or to mark spaying/neutering—common before microchips became widespread.
What daycare facilities might do:
These centers typically offer boarding, grooming, and sometimes basic medical care. Knowing exactly what services your dog received could explain the tattoo.
What the blue tattoo likely means:
Blue markings are commonly used to show a pet has been sterilized. But it’s unusual for a daycare to perform such procedures without your approval.
Possible reasons for the tattoo:
- A spay/neuter marker
- A form of permanent ID
- Left over from a medical procedure to avoid future surgeries
What you should do next:
- Check your dog’s medical records for any mention of a tattoo or procedure.
- Take clear photos of the tattoo for documentation.
Questions to ask the daycare:
- Did any veterinary procedures occur while she was there?
- Was she tattooed—and if so, why and by whom?
Share experiences:
Talk to other pet owners—similar stories might help clarify what happened.