Recovery Services FAQ

We encourage you to keep your records updated so that we can quickly return your pet home. You can make unlimited free updates, including phone number and address changes. Even if you go on a short vacation with your pet, please give us a call and we will note your temporary address and phone number.

• How do I update or change my pet's record?
  You can update your pet's record online by clicking here.
  
  You can also fax us at 919-233-1290 or mail your changes to 8051 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27617-3900. It is critical that you inform us immediately of any changes to owner information. If your pet has been found, the information you provide is our only means of contacting you.
  
  
• How is my privacy protected?
  AKC CAR takes your privacy seriously. The AKC CAR database employs sophisticated multi-layered data and network security methods that ensure strict confidentiality of your contact information. During the recovery process, AKC CAR makes every effort to contact you and/or your alternate contacts to find you, rather than providing your contact information to the person or organization who found your pet.* AKC CAR does not sell or distribute your contact information.
  
  * In the event that AKC CAR cannot contact you and/or your alternate contacts, AKC CAR may provide information to the person or organization who found your pet to aid in reuniting pets with their owners.



• Do I have to renew my pet's enrollment?
  No, the one-time enrollment fee covers the life of your pet.

• How do I transfer ownership of my pet?
  Download a transfer form by clicking here and mail it to 8051 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27617-3900.

• Can I order a new collar tag for my microchipped pet?
  Yes, if you have already enrolled with AKC CAR, you may order replacement tags online. Choose from stainless steel, black anodized aluminum, or blue anodized aluminum collar tags. Click here to order.

• How long will the microchip last?
  The microchip will last for the life of the pet. The microchip contains a unique ID code that can be activated only when read by a scanner.

• Where is the microchip implanted?
  For most animals (dogs, cats) the chip is implanted in the scruff of the neck (the loose skin between the animal's shoulder blades). In birds, the chip is implanted under a wing. Consult your veterinarian for exotic or other pets.

• Can the microchip be easily removed?
  No, a microchip can only be surgically removed by a veterinarian.

• How do I enroll?
  There are several ways to enroll:
  
  1. To enroll your pet in real time with AKC CAR's new online enrollment system click here.
  
  2. To download our new enrollment form and mail it in, click here.
  
  3. Call AKC CAR at 1-800-252-7894 and we will mail/fax/email our new enrollment form to you.
  
  4. If you do not have the new AKC CAR enrollment form, you can fax the form you have with credit card payment to AKC CAR at 919-233-1290.
  
  5. If you do not have the new CAR enrollment form, you can mail the form you have to:
  
  
  AKC Companion Animal Recovery
  8051 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 200
  Raleigh, NC 27617-3900
  
  

• What happens when my pet is found?
  When your pet's identification number is called in to the recovery hotline, AKC CAR will immediately call you. If you are not home, we will try to reach your alternate contact. This is why it is very important that you keep AKC CAR updated of any contact changes. You can update your pet's record now. AKC CAR's 24-hour recovery hotline is listed on all AKC CAR- issued collar tags.

• Can I use microchips to satisfy AKC requirements for identification?
  Yes. However if microchips are the SOLE means of identification being used, and you have more than twenty dogs over six months of age, you will be required to have a scanner on the premises. You can purchase a scanner by calling 1-800-252-7894.
  
  If you also use some other means of identification such as a collar tags or tattoos, you do not need to keep a scanner on the premises. To accept test results from health registries such as OFA and CERF, AKC requires that the dog have a permanent form of identification at the time of testing.

• "What is AKC CAR's refund policy?
  Application fees are generally not refundable. Any potential refunds to be paid are subject to a processing fee.