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Through the use of a distinctive parallel cluster lip-tattoo die brand designed by the TRPB and registered as a Certification Mark in the United States and Canada, the TRPB has, since 1947, provided the Thoroughbred industry with the single most effective, secure, practical and economical method of horse identification available today. The utility of this lip-tattoo identification system for racing purposes is demonstrated daily by attentive identifiers conscientiously following established guidelines and procedures in varied racing situations at Thoroughbred racetracks throughout the United States and Canada.
Because of the recognized effectiveness of the lip-tattoo identification system, the great majority of State Racing Commissions have enacted rules requiring a horse to be tattoo-branded prior to entry in a race. As a service to all Thoroughbred racetracks to enable their compliance with these Commission-mandated rules, the TRPB applies the tattoo brand to Thoroughbreds stabled at all TRA-member tracks as well as non-member tracks and farms throughout the United States and Canada.
Since 1947, specially trained Technicians contracted by the TRPB have identified, tattoo-branded and photographed more than 1,000,000 Thoroughbreds throughout the United States and Canada. In accordance with an existing agreement with The Arabian Jockey Club, these Technicians also identify, tattoo-brand and photograph Arabian horses racing at various racetracks in the United States and Canada.
In support of its tattooing activities, TRPB maintains a vast storehouse of information for each horse tattooed, including a branding report, which details information about the horse as well as a photograph of the tattoo. This information is accessed on a regular basis by track identifiers who require assistance in correctly identifying a Thoroughbred; also by owners who conduct horse-identity research to learn the registered name, pedigree and racing history of Thoroughbreds acquired for non-racing pleasure use.
For matters relating to Standardbred tattooing, please contact the United States Trotting Association (USTA) at (614) 224-2291, and for Quarter Horse tattooing please contact the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) at (806) 376-4811.