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When Brooklyn-based tattoo artist, Mistah Metro posted a photo of his brown and white dog emblazoned with a brand new tattoo – not an inconspicuous identifying tattoo or the small green or blue line used by some veterinarians to indicate the dog is spayed, but a decorative heart with an arrow through it and a banner with the names Alex and Mel – the image sparked outrage among both dog lovers and the tattoo community.
“One of the many reasons my dog is cooler than yours! She had her spleen removed today and the vet let me tattoo her while she was under,” Mistah Metro boasted on Instagram along with a photo of his dog, still asleep and recovering from her surgery, with the brand new tattoo displayed on her freshly-shaven right shoulder.
The image quickly turned viral, sparking such backlash that Mistah Metro was forced to close his Instagram account. But, just two hours after closing his account, the photo reappeared on Instagram under a new user account with the name “mistahmetro7.”
“Had to delete my account and make up another, some people just don’t appreciate anything! It’s an ANIMAL with a tattoo,” the new post read.
The new account, presumably owned by the artist, was also closed shortly after posting as a result of backlash.
Mistah Metro is an artist at the Red Legged Devil, a tattoo parlor in Brooklyn. The shop’s owner, Chris Torres defended his employee’s actions, Tweeting, “you guys are aware that the ASPCA tattoos dogs & cats once they’ve spayed or neutered them, right?”
According to The Gothamist, the ASPCA’s position on tattooing is as follows:
The ASPCA condones the use of tattooing for only identification purposes following spay or neuter surgery. This practice helps animal welfare professionals clearly identify animals that have been altered, thereby preventing unnecessary future surgeries. This painless procedure is performed by a licensed veterinarian or veterinary technician while the animal is under anesthesia. The marks are very small and have a specific purpose, which is to avoid inflicting undue pain and stress later if that animal is unknowingly brought in for a spay surgery a second time.
Tattooing an animal for the vain sake of joy and entertainment of the owner – without any regard for the well-being of the animal – is not at all comparable to the incident in question and is not something the ASPCA supports.
On Wednesday, Mistah Metro issued an apology on his Tumblr page, which has also since been removed. Chris Torres continues to assert that the dog was not tattooed at his shop and that he and Red Legged Devil had nothing to do with the incident.
We view this incident as a clear case of animal abuse involving two licensed professionals – the tattoo artist that did this to his own dog, and the veterinarian that hosted the tattoo session in his surgery center – what’s your opinion?
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Tim Bradley
Mar 14, 2014 at 5:57 am
I wonder who has more sense out of the two of them… what a dick!
sarah
Mar 10, 2014 at 2:28 am
ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING
he should have his dog taken off him and be banned from keeping animals and the vet that allowed this should be should have his licence removed and be banned from working with animals .
it was unnecessary and any animal lover wouldn’t consider tattooing their dog ffs
Ashley
Mar 10, 2014 at 1:28 am
****Cruelty to animals, also called animal abuse or animal neglect, is the human infliction of suffering or harm upon non-human animals, for purposes other than self-defense or survival.*****
So in all actuality he DID put harm and abuse towards his animal, because what he did was nothing the animal should of had done, EVEN IF, the dog was under. Because, I do know that the pain of having a tattoo is not just a few hours, and I would think of him being a tattoo artist, he would of known that.
People who are animal lovers would of never THOUGHT of doing thing or are not replying that this guy should have been able to do it. It is cruel to animals and it sounds like you might be supporting dog fights.
True animal lovers will fight.
Not support this. That’s when you know you aren’t a true animal lover!
Manel
Mar 8, 2014 at 6:48 pm
This is pure cruelty & abuse of a innocent voiceless living being. Such brutality & callous has showered upon his own pet in such a manner is outrageous & inferiorates. This so called Tatoo Artist is mentally deranged Psycho.
Laurie
Mar 8, 2014 at 5:25 am
Yes it’s OK, no it’s not OK, there will always be more than enough people to argue back and forth what is wrong and what is right. It’s his dog and no one can tell him or stop him from doing it. Get over it. Worry about the animals that are in a high kill shelter. The ones that are trained to fight to the death. The poor babies that are beaten, shot, cut, and left for dead. People killing or torturing animals for their own pleasure. This is what we all should be in an up roar about. The tattoo is small potatoes. Take your outrage and use it for good in what I mentioned above. Report real animal abuse, spay and neuter your pets, keep up on their care and vetting, adopt, don’t shop. Use your voices where it really matters. Don’t get an animal and drop it off at a shelter because it’s just not working out. If animals did have a voice, what do you think they would say? Keep me, love me, don’t abandon me, don’t leave me where I am in a strange place and scared to death. I am not a lawn ornament. Let me in the house and love me! I will love you back and be your constant companion. I will be loyal. I will protect you. I have a heart and soul. I have feelings too! Forget about the tattoo. Open your eyes to the real abuse, get outraged there and try to do something about that travesty.
Nicole
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:13 pm
I’d you wouldn’t do it to a nonconsenting child, why is it any better doing it to a dog? Tattoos healing can be painful, tender and itchy along with the possibility of infection. To put anyone or anything through that for selfish reasons is just not a cool thing.
Standupgal
Mar 8, 2014 at 9:44 am
I feel the same way about people piercing their baby’s ears.
Ellie
Mar 7, 2014 at 8:21 pm
This is so beyond cruel . Why put your poor dog through the pain? If you wanted to damage your animal why not just find him a new home. That would be painful enough. And the Vet should be sanctioned, lose his job or something. Beasts.
Leigh
Mar 7, 2014 at 7:53 pm
here is something else that may not have been considered. If this dog should ever need to be rehomed ( and there is always the possibility that something could happen like owner being seriously hurt in car accident) the possibility of this dog finding a new owner has been decreased very significantly.
Bernadette
Mar 7, 2014 at 6:47 pm
Wow, I hope the dog doesn’t get an infection from scratching or a bad reaction to the ink.
And man, so many ignorant comments. Poor thing won’t understand the tattoo, as far as scratching and pain recovery. While they are not children, their brains are equivalent to the brain of a toddler.
The DVM should be reported for allowing this. I think the owner just did not think this through.
Cynthia Finger
Mar 7, 2014 at 5:40 pm
This is just WRONG. Anytime we go under anesthesia, there is a risk. The longer you are under anesthesia, the greater the risk. The same is true for dogs.
Poor baby is going to be sore, recovering from his/her first surgery and then the dog was kept under anesthesia longer for the tattoo? The type of surgery that the dog had initially indicates that the animal was not in the best of health to begin with, then you toss in possible itching and infection from the tattoo site?!?!? How stupid and uncaring can you be? If you do care for the dog, maybe you just have a “different” way of showing it.
I think that human and canine tattoos are dumb, but this is just my opinion.
David
Mar 7, 2014 at 4:37 pm
I love how people say there are worse things going on in the world so we should just “get over it” OF COURSE there are worse things going on in the world, but does that mean we should only worry about the worst of the worse? If so, then everybody just pick ONE thing in the world that you consider the worst of the worse, and everything else should be fine. right? :o/ smh
Lisa staples
Mar 7, 2014 at 2:53 pm
It is very much like tattooing a child, since our dogs are under our care and have little or no way of caring for themselves.
Maria Buchwalter
Mar 7, 2014 at 1:46 pm
For Gods sake the the was under anesthesia. Yeah under a little longer? maybe. At least he is well taken car of and won’t ever be lost!!! People need to calm down!!
Lois
Mar 7, 2014 at 12:03 pm
Regardless of whether one thinks it is Ok for an owner to tattoo a dog, this is a dog who just had a splenectomy, and is obviously not in the best of health. Why would anyone jeopardize the already precarious health of the dog to do an additional, totally unnecessary, and possibly harmful procedure on it? There is always the possibility of infection with a tattoo, and the dog’s immune system already has to work overtime to recover from the splenectomy. IMHO, this was a poor decision on both the owner’s and vet’s part!!
Steve
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:51 am
It’s obvious the dog’s owner cares very much for his dog. He just has a slightly different way of showing it. It’s “different,” but I don’t think it fits into one category more than another. The dog isn’t suffering any consequences because of it so go finish your breakfast and leave the guy alone.
LYNN
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:43 am
I think it’s awesome that he has his own brand. The world has become so messed up with what is and isn’t accepted. People micro chip their dogs. Well this is the same thing. I’m sure the fur will grow back over it. It’s not like he’s going to keep shaving his dog. He wasn’t harmed and I’m sure he loves his dog very much. Unless their is harm being done to this animal, people need to mind their own business. It’s not like their going to start tattooing animals. REALLY !! Come on people. God given rights and Freedom. Lighten up !!!!
Patricia Burgess
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:19 am
My only question is: HOW MUCH LONGER WAS THE DOG FORCED TO STAY UNDER WHILE THIS TATOO WAS BEING DONE? You all seem to agree on the fact that it takes time to do a tattoo. I have a couple small tattoos myself and know it takes time to do one expertly. Again: How much longer was this beautiful dog’s life endangered while the tat was being done? That thought truly upsets me most. And yes I have a dog. And no, I would not do this to her. But that’s my opinion.
Aeriol
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:16 am
Well at least everyone knows who’s dog it is. If it ever gets lost or even stolen the thief better be called Alex. Or if it gets lost everyone will know it is someones totally loved dog and maybe take greater care in finding it’s owner. Other than that I think it is a dumb idea to tat a dog, but I think human tats are dumb to. But that’s just my opinion. But he was under and I doubt it bothered him at all. There are bigger things in the world to scream about.
Froggboots
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:08 am
Why inflict your pet to something visually satisfying to you that goes beyond just humiliating them in a pink tutu or some crap like that? This owner is way more dedicated to art than his pet.
Reggie
Mar 7, 2014 at 10:33 am
SHAME on the vet & the owner, but bigger shame on the Vet.
They should’ve spent time talking the owner out of it. I’m sure
The poor dog had to be under anesthesia longer, putting it at risk,
To do this.
Sadly people will see this & may not have the dog under anesthesia.
My stomach churned when I saw this & my heart fell.
People please stop projecting your choices on your dog!
Michael
Mar 7, 2014 at 9:36 am
Seriously?? Rage much people? Beating a dog for no reason is bad. Torturing a dog is evil. Leaving a dog chained up with little or no food and water is inhumane. Putting a tattoo on a dog to say he’s yours? How is this any different than cattle branding? Except the cattle are awake and feel it! Or “poodle doodle” (see: dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1208913/The-poodles-transformed-pandas-horses-snails-creative-grooming-dog-shows.html) which is apparently an acceptable practice in “civil” societies. How about tagging various animals to track their movements and migrations. Or injecting chips in dog’s bodies “in case they get lost”. Seriously, I’m a huge lover of animals, particularly dogs, and if the guy did it while the dog was conscious, then I’d agree and say it was cruel. However, a simple tattoo, done while the dog was asleep, (ugly per your opinion or not) is not cruelty. Personally I say that’s an ultimate sign of love from the tattoo artist for his dog and I’m glad to know the dog has such an owner.
Dorie
Mar 7, 2014 at 9:09 am
I have to agree with “DaKine” this is going too far with the rights if the owner! What’s the purpose for it? Just to say my dog is tattooed? Getting a micro chip would do the same purpose for protecting your pet if something happens in the future! Much more humane and safer than a tattoo!
DaKine
Mar 7, 2014 at 8:20 am
So, the bottom line is that the owner subjected his dog to the procedure of getting a tattoo. The owner understands that the dog did not have a choice in this matter. Being under anesthetic, the dog could not protest by trying to get away or biting the hand that tattooed him. The owner chose to take risks with his dog, concerning infection, allergic reaction, prolonging healing time, and possibly future shavings so the tattoo can be displayed. Obviously, the decision to do this had nothing to do with the dog but the ego of the human. So, while this is not a case of extreme abuse, what remains is the fact that humans continually justify the disrespect of other living creatures. Humans are despicable when it comes to asserting there control over others. This is yet another example of forcible power over innocents. Those who disagree have a right to disagree just as the dog ‘had’ a right not to have a tattoo forced upon him while he slept under anesthetic.
Donald Whitney
Mar 7, 2014 at 12:40 am
My opinion? They’re two buttholes….
Lisa
Mar 6, 2014 at 11:55 pm
Obviously, I do not know much about tattoos. People of all ages get them while they are awake. Besides being cosmetic, how does this have any negative effect on the dog? If it is dog abuse, is it considered self harm when people get them?
rayeen
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:43 pm
What is wrong with the dogs owner, He should be horse whipped as to the Vet that allowed this he also should be disbarred from ever practicing again with animal care, & the boss of the tattoo shop should be line up & horsewhipped as well. This is cruel in every sense of the word. What will happen to the poor dog if Mel ever ditches Alex or vice versa, Will they cut the tattoo off the dog or just dump the dog. As they will not want to be reminded of their ditched lover. Your all sick & need to get some mental health care.
jes
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:22 pm
Um, people, the pain from abdominal surgery is going to be WAY worse than the tattoo. The tattoo pain was done under anesthesia.
2nd2none
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:04 pm
to compare dogs to children, in a word is REALLY as(s)inine! they are two separate species and there IS *no comparison. as far as “Unnecessary procedures”. damn, give me a break on that comment!!!!! tell me, how NECESSARY are ear crops, tail docks, dew claw removals, etc, etc, …just to name a few????? talk about hypocritical!!!! the dog was UNDER. it did NOT feel any pain due to the procedure of the tattoo. in a few days, the area may itch and start to pull/get tight, but that’s about it, unless it gets infected. the procedure took place in a sterile environment, under the supervision of a DVM, done by an artist who does it for a living. not a novice. and what’s the big deal, the hair is going to grow back anyhow. people get SO bent about what we do to our animals. watch how pigs get beat/bluggened before they’re slaughtered. watch how horses get their throats slit while hanging upside down, still alive. watch the life chickens live before their heads are taken off, how “experimental” animals live out their days in tiny cages…….. seems there is FAAAR more cruelty than tattooing a dog who never even felt it happening…. silly people…
maria luisa redona
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:04 pm
body i cant just think why such people so cruel ! when i was asked by my vet for my dog s to have an dentity clip inside their body for a reason that if they get lost!! we can find them ! that long time ago i was agreeing it ! but now NO,NO NO !!!IFEEL SO REGRET FOR AGREEING TO MY VET DOC ! WEELL REALLY ITS A USED FOR SOME AND I DONT READ ANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT IT ! but !! iall always caring my dogs that really i is not being used and still thinking such act is cruel and so much sorry why i allowed it ! having a peteven i dont like to say pets ! my babys !! is a big responsiblity ! for caring them with all your might and heart !so i thoght that clips in their bodies i feel like i abuse my pups ! for that since they were very little at that time ! may bet they had pain at that time that really we cant realize about it !
i love my pups so much that wanted them to live as normal as dogs are ! not like humans to have entertainment for ourselves also we have to do to our pets
i am totally against anythinng to let use the animals for our own behalfs ! and poor pets who has no voice just to obey us whatever we wants !
I AM SO HEARTBROKEN AFTER I READ ABOUT THIS TATTOING ANIMALS ! I FEEL SO SO SAD FOR OUR WEAKNESESS HUMANS THAT OUR MINDS SOMETIMES DOESNT WORK !! THIS KIND OF PEOPLE WHO USED ANIMALS FOR THEIR BENEFITS IS NOT LOVE FOR THEIR OWN PETS !! ITS SELFISHNESS !! OR TO BOOST ! AND I HAVE HEARD ALSO SOME VETS FOR MONEY ! THEY LIES FOR THE ILLNESS FO THE ANIMALS JUST TO BE PAID !!
I JUST HOPE THAT WE HUMANS TO OPEN OUR HEART AND MINDS THAT ANIMALS IS TOGETHER WERE CREATED! WE HAVE TO THINK TOO HARD IF WE LOVE OUR PETS BFORE WE DECIDE SOMETHING TO AMUSED OURSELVES NOT TO HURT THEM ! DOGS IS AN SPECIALS CREATURES That GOD CREATES FOR US !! THEY HAVE A VERY UNIQUE WAY TO LOVE US HUMANS !
AT MY FINAL WORDS PLEASE ! PLEASE PLEASE BE KIND TO ANIMALS ! CAUSE IIF WE ARE KIND TO THEM MEANS WE HAVE A BIG HEART TO EVRYONE !! ISNT IT A NICE FEELINGS IF YOU ARE GOOD HUMANS !!
annemarie brewis
Mar 6, 2014 at 8:09 pm
Bloody sick freak of nature he should be sentenced for this . He needs pysciatric help
Jeanette
Mar 6, 2014 at 7:52 pm
*tattoo not ratio
Jeanette
Mar 6, 2014 at 7:50 pm
Tattoos given to identify if an animal has been spayed or neutered don’t involve needles. They literally dribble ink over the incision line once it’s been sutured back up and the ink remains there permanently. Ear tattoos for id numbers are tiny dots to form a number. No color shaving, not even close to getting an actual tattoo. This is just ridiculous. That fur is going to grow back and cover it up anyways so besides being unnecessary and high risk for infection (since you can’t tell a dog to stay clean and not bother the ratio until it’s been healed) what’s even the point?
jes
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:37 pm
Ear tattoos are tiny dots formed by PUNCHING NEEDLES INTO THE SKIN. sheesh I wish people knew sometimes what they were talking about. This is also a form of tattoo and one NOT often done with anesthesia, like this dog had. Here you go, someone doing it on bunnies. get informed
youtube.com/watch?v=mLpg2XCWeak
Estelle
Mar 6, 2014 at 7:30 pm
I think the vet is a liar, and the pet’s owner is an ass.
Michelle
Mar 6, 2014 at 6:53 pm
This is CERTAINLY abuse! There should be a law against this, even if the dog is sedated when it occurs.
What happens if this ass hat dies and the dog has to be adopted out? No one wants to walk around with a dog with other people’s names on it, and more importantly no one wants to walk around getting dirty looks from everyone else thinking the new owner is the SELF CENTERED JERK who did it!
Michele
Mar 6, 2014 at 6:40 pm
I think it’s bullshit to tattoo your dog. I have tattoos myself but #1 I chose to get tattooed. A dog cannot choose to be needled. #2 the dog now has to recover from surgery and keep the tattoo clean to avoid infection? I’m sorry I think it’s just crazy and vain to do that to a dog. I am a wreck any time my dog is put under for medical necessities I would never compound that recovery by adding anything more to it. It’s just bad parenting.
My infoRobin
Mar 6, 2014 at 5:41 pm
I think this is so wrong! What in the hell was this idiot thinking, or maybe thats it, he wasnt thinking! This is definitely a form of animal abuse, no doubt about it. I think these two people should have a tattoo put across their forheads saying, “LOSER”!!!!!!!!
MICHELLE
Mar 6, 2014 at 4:45 pm
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHO THE VET IS I LIVE IN BKLYN AND I WOULD NOT WANT TO EVER USE THIS VET
Kim Keller
Mar 6, 2014 at 4:18 pm
This tattoo artists should have his license revoked for good it is effn disscusting, I’m very upset with this poor baby didn’t ask for that!!!!
Jaz
Mar 6, 2014 at 4:14 pm
I am in two minds about this…
Firstly when I saw this I gasped in horror!
I thought what kind of person would tattoo their dog?
And why?
But then it made me think about all the cattle branding which is NOT done
Under any sedative or while the animal is under.
Or so many other examples of branding animals which have continued to this day without
As much shock and horror as this man has created online.
Also, those who are against hurting animals and causing them unwarranted and unnecessary pain and anguish shouldn’t eat animals all together and be united in your cause.
I think, if you’re going to be against animal cruelty, don’t pick and choose your battles because that’s the problem here
If cattle ranchers can get away with burning a cows flesh then the same can be said about a man tattooing his dog.
skyler rosey
Mar 6, 2014 at 3:22 pm
Did the dog ask to be tattooed?
NO A DOG ONLY WANT TO LOVE YOU & BE LOVED BACK.
May this useless piece of garbage have his hand sliced off.
JENNIFER MCDONALD
Mar 6, 2014 at 4:02 pm
Skyler, Circuses are animal abuse, dogfighting is animal abuse, zoos and aquarium are abusing animals from preventing the animals from existing in their natural habitat. Tuna nets are abuse, leather shoes belts and car interiors are deemed abuse by some. Are you vegan? No? Who are You to pass a sentence? You abuse animals civil rights for your food source. Are you a stinky unkempt backwoods hippie? Cosmetics, shampoos, and body washes, tested on animals? Do you always look?. Are you sustainable? Nope? Youre abusing snimals by making the world unsafe. Dude, is taking all this shit cause he put his love for his dog in ink. Misguided? Definitely. Worth losing a hand? No. That’s ridiculous. Focus your rage on puppy mills and kill shelters, dog beaters and cops who shoot dogs when they are excited to see someone.
GotCommonSense
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:51 am
Oh! Case should be closed as Jennifer knows it all people. LMAO! What a jerk you are lady.
JENNIFER MCDONALD
Mar 8, 2014 at 2:51 pm
Why do you have a hard on for my comments? Do I make you and your torch and pitchfork nervous by stating other instances of perceived cruelty? I eat tuna and wear leather nikes just like everyone else. I also support and work for rescue, and honestly, when you see a dog skin and bones with an eyeball hanging out from neglect of infection, thats abuse. Dead animals lying in mass graves, dogs with hanging jaws and broken or snaggle teeth where someone has kicked mans best friend in the face. Cats lit on fire or firecrackers shoved up their butts. Horses, skin and bones and pressure sores on untrimmed hooves. Not a misguided dude inking a love note to his dog, on his dog. If you feel as such, go work for a rescue, foster, donate, drop a bag of food off at your local shelter. Stop puppy mills. Be a crusader. We can always use the help. If you just want to be contrary and bluster, then eat it and grow the hell up.
Natasha
Mar 6, 2014 at 3:02 pm
Calm down. As has been said before, this is no worse than ear cropping and tail docking. Ok, the dog was sick from whatever required the splenectomy. Yes, the extra anesthesia had the potential to create problems. But, the dog healed, the dog LIVED, and most likely doesn’t care one way or another about the tattoo. He’s not hanging his head in shame because he’s got some ink. Did the guy maybe make a poor judgement call? Yeah, probably. Did the veterinarian maybe not think this through. Most likely. But, to call THIS animal abuse? Obviously, none of you have ever held a dog being euthanized because the owner doesn’t want to spend the next 14 days giving meds, or watching an entire litter of puppies die, because the owners wouldn’t spay the mother, and refuse to spend the money for a c-section. As a vet tech for the past 10 years with more tattoos than I have years, I’ve seen so many other things that would qualify as “abuse”, but this is not one of them. Lay off these guys. Have none of you ever made a bad decision?
Carol
Mar 7, 2014 at 2:30 pm
Natasha, I’m glad you are not a vet tech at my veterinary office. To you this does not qualify as abuse?
Kia
May 11, 2017 at 6:37 am
I agreee with you. It was a poor choice, especially to post a picture after with the dog still unconscious. I think far worse is the tail docking and ear cutting for vanity.
Shelly
Mar 6, 2014 at 2:22 pm
Everyone involved in this are truly sick people!!! The owner doesn’t have a clue absolutely brainless!!!!!
aj
Mar 6, 2014 at 2:04 pm
Hell yeah I’d tattoo my dog too, parents let their spoiled ass kids get em. Why not my spoiled ass dog too. Its not inhumane its a a tat. You ASPCA fucks make me sick.
lesley
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:39 pm
Cruel is dressing up animals as if they are children, leaving them tied up all day and night for the rest of there lives, making them live in metal drums in the winter cold and summer heat, hitting or kicking them, starving them and letting them have litter after litter and drowning or dumping the puppies becaude they sre not wanted. This man loves his dog , most of you need to get a life and fight real crulety.Personally I wouldn’t do to my animals but as I said there are worse things happening in the animal and human world.
JJ
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:33 pm
Then tell me the difference on branding a cow to show ownership. At least this isn’t an ugly tatoo.
JENNIFER MCDONALD
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:32 pm
Pretty frickin sure no dog ever gives his consent to being spayed or neutered…just saying, I think its kind of cute. You can tell he loves him, not like he took shears to his ears or wrapped a rubber band around his tail. Crucify those idiots. My dog gets out of the gate when fedex comes…if she wasnt black, I would tattoo her phone number on her. Just in case someone didn’t know about microchips. Some people are old skool. Leave that guy alone. He made a judgment error.
JENNIFER MCDONALD
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:35 pm
And the dude probably paid a ton of money on his dog for spleen surgery, rather than putting him down. Both are signs of commitment.
GotCommonSense
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:49 am
Apparently the dude has no clue what the spleen is for….that his dog is now missing. The dude is a douche plain and simple and that tattoo is fuckin ugly.
JENNIFER MCDONALD
Mar 8, 2014 at 2:40 pm
Lol, are you any less of a douche for being a judgemental fool? I think not.
Mendy
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:14 pm
Looks like the dog has a pierced tongue as well. Anyone else notice that or is it just the lighting or something?
Jodonna
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:11 pm
Sad, yes the dog is under anesthesia but so many things could go wrong with it. And yes there are other things in the world to be concerned about, however, we have to choose what situations we try and fix. We cannot fix everything and we can’t worry about everything, we would go nuts. So…….choose your battles.
Jess
Mar 6, 2014 at 12:56 pm
I would never condone doing this to any animal but I don’t see were tattooing it causes any more pain and suffering that docking ears and tails to meet AKC standard for showing.
GotCommonSense
Mar 6, 2014 at 12:27 pm
Um, Jennifer, first of all this is not a bad ass tattoo and second the ASPCA does not suggest tartooing an animal is ok, unless it is a LINE , which my digs do have to denote they are spayed and neutered. You need to get your eyes checked! Bad ass tattoo! LMAO. I say white trash tattoo. It would be like tattooing a child as they cannot give something called CONSENT!!
Crys
Mar 6, 2014 at 12:22 pm
As a future vet I believe this should not have happened. I would like to hear from the vet and make sure that we have all the facts. As a vet we are suppose to protect animals, heal them, and relieve pain. When we begin vet school we take an oath, “Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.” (avma.org/News/JAVMANews/Pages/x110101a.aspx) There was no medical reason for the body art, it shouldn’t have been done. I feel the same about any cosmetic procedure on animals, such as ear cropping. I myself have tattoos and piercings, yes there is pain and it is a choice that I made. I would never allow this to happen where I work, it is ethically wrong.
Standupgal
Mar 8, 2014 at 9:43 am
Finally…an educated voice of reason. Thank you Crys. As if ear cropping and tail chopping aren’t enough. Now tattooing. Ugh.
kristian Mccarthy
Mar 6, 2014 at 12:09 pm
Wrong UNCOOL.What an idiot! Since the Tattoo still hurts after they wake up. I cant understand y any vet would allow that. Should revoke their license for acessory to animal cruelty, or just plain stipidity
Charlie
Mar 6, 2014 at 11:31 am
I have never seen a design I’d like to have on me for the rest of my life, let alone several. To me it would have reflected poor judgement. The dog didn’t have that choice, and that was poor judgement.
Janice Wolbach
Mar 6, 2014 at 10:24 am
Totally wrong. Fine this bastard so he never does this again!
M
Mar 6, 2014 at 10:16 am
Does ANYONE know what vet participated in this?? I NEVER want to accidentally go there or recommend them to ANYONE, FOR ANYTHING!
Jessicatravels
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:53 am
What about the artist from Latin America that starved a dog in the name of “art”. There is no end if it’s not nipped in the bud now.
Sharon Palmer
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:51 am
I think it’s deplorable what people do to animals, it makes me totally sick. I wish there were harsher laws for animal abuse.
Jessicatravels
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:51 am
Yet another form of human entitlement encroaching on poor helpless animals. Just because you can’t attention on your own merit you have no right to bring you pet into the equation. The animal should be removed from his care and the vet should be cited!
christine
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:42 am
I think this is just as bad as docking tails and shaping ears in puppies to create a specific look. With dogs becoming more and more “fashion accessories”, this may lead to a dangerous trend that I hope Animal Welfare Organizations can stop before it goes to far….
julie
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:40 am
Who cares? I mean really people? This is what everyone gets upset about? There is so much more in the world to worry about than a dog getting a tattoo. It was under anesthesia and didn’t feel it. If it was alive, like people are, than that is something to complain about. Really, get your priorities straight. What a joke!
emily
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:48 am
I have to agree with you. Not saying that it’s right but seriously this dog will be so doped up on pain meds after a surgery like this he won’t even know the tattoo’s there. Not to mention how expensive this surgery probably was! I think this guy made a mistake but he clearly loves his dog.
julie
Mar 6, 2014 at 10:03 am
Exactly. I’m not saying I would do it but there is so much more to worry about, like people killing animals while they are still alive, throwing them in lakes and other horrible things. This is just a guy tattooing his dog. It is his profession. I am surprised he hasn’t done it before now. The dog will not feel a thing and the man obviously knows how to keep it clean so it will heal correctly. This, in my opinion, is no different than people piercing their infant child, boys and girls, ears. They don’t have a choice in the matter either and they are awake for the pain. At least this dog is asleep while it is happening.
nancy
Mar 6, 2014 at 11:01 am
Oh good Lord! Grow up! This is pure animal abuse..and as for the other problems in the world. .yes of course we care about that idiots
Lynette
Mar 6, 2014 at 8:36 pm
“Killing animals while they are still alive” Is that as opposed to killing them after they are dead?
Linda Frater
Mar 6, 2014 at 10:04 am
Who cares? Well I do and a lot of animal lovers do too! Yes, there are lots of things going on in the world, who’s denying that? The subject at hand now though is this poor dog being subjected to such inhumane abuse. Why do we think that we are so superior that we can do anything we like to these poor beings! And yes, this dog and many others have no choice and no voice of their own. It is people like me who gives a damn and are their voices so thank you, I do have my priorities right!
Michelle
Mar 6, 2014 at 10:48 am
If it was alive? I’m pretty sure being under anesthesia is considered being alive. I will never understand when people say “how do people get so upset about something, there are more important issues in the world” Well you’re right there are bigger issues, but just because we’re having a discussion about this or whatever other topic, it doesn’t mean we don’t care about bigger issues too, it just means we have an opinion about this and we’d like to share it or debate about it!
In my opinion, this dog’s body is obviously under stress already because of the surgery, which is pretty serious at that, and then having a foreign substance (the ink) being put into its body, it just makes for a greater chance of infection, on top of the poor thing not feeling well after the surgery, having to have the pain of the tattoo to deal with as well. Just not very smart!
GotCommonSense
Mar 6, 2014 at 12:30 pm
Ok then Julie, what are you worried about in the world and what ate YOU DOING to prevent it? My guess is not one thing.
Patti
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:34 am
This is all wrong. Dogs are not a canvas for art. And what will be the complications of ink and their blood combo? Vet is NOT a dog lover but a tat lover. Owner….not very responsible. Sorry have to say…This is Wrong
Ashley
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:29 am
Sad both should lose there liscense poor dog tattoos arnt for animals. I have tattoos, and I’d never give my three dogs a tattoo that’s so wrong
Cyndy Groves
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:26 am
This is a clear case of pet owner vanity. This person should not be allowed to have a pet. It is animal abuse – causing unnecessary pain to the animal. The dog may have been under during the tatto application, but having several tattos myself, I know the pain that that one has to endure for several days afterward. The vet should also have his/her license revoked. To condone this behavior is complete unprofessional and akin to malpractice in my book. When will people understand that animals were not put on this earth merely for human consupmtion and entertainment?
jennifer
Mar 6, 2014 at 11:28 am
The pain afterward is not that bad. Dogs have a higher pain tolerance and if the owner cares for it properly there should be no complications. You all act as if getting a tattoo is the most painful thing you’ve ever done. Have a baby, get a total bowel obstruction, fall down ice skating. Frigging move along.
Former Marine
Mar 7, 2014 at 8:24 am
@Jennifer – how on earth would you know what an animal’s pain tolerance is – unless you’ve done tests and gotten mighty good, VERBAL, answer, you total waste of a human life. I hope you don’t have children and raise them to be the same sort of stinking cesspool that you are. Dogs don’t smoke or drink, either, but I’m sure you’d say that was all right, too, right?
NO TATS On Dogs or Cats
Mar 15, 2014 at 8:49 pm
STFU
Heather Wilson..
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:17 am
Idon’t think it is the tattoo that angers people,it is the size and timing,if he had tattooed his dog long after surgery,with a vet and the anethesia ,would you still feel the same way.Iam an avid animal lover and protector of all animals,i just want to know if it had been done later,after the dog had healed from surgery,would you have felt different.
janeen jackewicz
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:31 am
It is absolutely the tattoo that angers me. I have a tattoo, but it was my choice, and to me this is vanity at it’s worst. To answer your question, later would have angered me even more. This way at least the dog was already under. To put him under anesthesia at a later date and risk his health (for there is always risk with anesthesia)would have compounded the wrongness of this. Even the extra time spent under increased the risk to this dog (for tattoos do take time). I would like to know the name of the vet-malpractice as far as I am concerned.
Linda Frater
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:50 am
I would not! It is still blatant abuse of an animal which had no say in the matter whether it is done before or after, anesthetic or not! I do not have any tattoo but I have friends who have and they said it is a painful procedure long after! To subject your pet which you purportedly love through this pain and agony is not human! I am an animal lover and protector too and it would never cross my mind to allow my pet such grief!
Barbara
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:54 am
YES! I would still feel that it was abuse of the dog, regardless of when the tattooing was done!
melody hintergardt
Mar 6, 2014 at 10:30 am
NO!! No, it would not!!
jennifer
Mar 6, 2014 at 11:25 am
Any additional time you put an animal under anesthesia you are risking it’s life. No the dog didn’t give it’s consent. Just like the millions of dogs that don’t give consent to be spay or neutered, but I will tell you something I know about dogs. They would do anything for their owners. If the dog could answer he probably would have said, “sure dad I would do anything to be like you. I love you.” Now if the dog holds a grudge, never speaks to his owner again, never smiles or goes into a deep depression over this I guess you right, otherwise why don’t you find a real cause to devote your energy to because this shit is trivial.
Linda
Mar 6, 2014 at 5:27 pm
JENNIFER, YOU ARE A SICK INDIVIDUAL. YOU ARE RIGHT THIS SHIT IS TRIVIAL TO SOMEONE THAT IS OBVIOUSLY WITH LOW MORAL CHARACTER SUCH AS YOU. NO MATTER WHAT YOU SAY OR ADD TO THIS REPLY, I STILL THINK IT IS ANIMAL ABUSE, AND SINCE IT IS SUCH TRIVIAL SHIT, WHY DON’T YOU SHUT THE F UP.
Carol
Mar 7, 2014 at 2:17 pm
That goes for me too. Trivial? You are an idiot~~without a conscience.
NO TATS On Dogs or Cats
Mar 15, 2014 at 8:51 pm
STFU
Bre
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:13 am
I cannot believe an owner would inflict this on his dog! The problem is the poor dog didn’t get to give you his Opinion on inflicting pain on him! I wgree this is abuse!
Bobb
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:29 pm
There was no pain. The Dog was under anesthesia. No pain.
Simone
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:43 pm
Seriously? I remember it being pretty uncomfortable after. Plus I did NOT have a major surgery done at the same time. Poor dog’s immune system is shot because of the surgery and he decides to put ink on the poor soul as well? Sorry, but that’s just wrong. What a low life.
Carol
Mar 7, 2014 at 10:45 am
I can’t believe it either. Definitely animal abuse. Does this benefit the dog in ANY WAY??? The owner is just an egotistical moron. That vet should be fined for allowing something like this. Can’t believe what some people willingly do to their animals. That poor dog should be taken away from him.
Jo
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:10 am
My body is coverd with Tattoo’s, But I have never in 45 yrs. of my life even remotly thought of put one on my beloved pet! And if this starts a new trend Im going to explode!!! Theve never seen bat shit crazy pet groomer comin at em! Let me tell ya!
deanna
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:06 am
I think this is just so sad.. my doggie just got fixed last week.. she has the tiny tattoo on her belly where they fixed her .. nothing like this sailor like symbol put on the dog.. I hope the authorities step in and make people notice with this case..How hateful of the people involved in this.. I think someone should take the dog away
Liesl Beckley
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:04 am
What a horrible thing to do to !!!!!!! Maybe next time this guy is under, we can tattoo “ASSHOL across his forehead!!!!!!!
jennifer
Mar 6, 2014 at 11:19 am
Maybe you could if you knew how to spell it. I would like to hear from other vets on this matter. The dog has got a bad ass tattoo. The ASPCA suggests it’s okay to do under anesthesia for marking purposes.
And if you are hurting and burning so much after tattoos you need a better artist. The biggest deal on mine was that I couldn’t shave my leg in that area for a few weeks.
GotCommonSense
Mar 6, 2014 at 12:34 pm
You are a dumbass Jennifer! Bad ass tattoo?? LMAO. I would venture to say you need a pair if GLASSES! LMFAO!
Anon
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:06 pm
The dog was under general anesthesia, the veterinarian allowed it to be done, and there is no burning after a tattoo, stop being so dramatic. It hurts while it’s being done and that’s it, and I have big ones. Is the tattoo a bit big and unusual compared to the normal line they tattoo? Yes. But I guarantee you no one will be able to steal that dog, and it’s not comparable to branding. Should it be encouraged in tattoo shops with dogs not under general? No. Should it be allowed on the rare occasion the owner is a tattoo artist and the animal is under general anesthesia? Why not? I hate overly dramatic people who just want a cause to champion without giving any further thought to what lies beyond the surface. When you cry wolf over everything, people stop listening to you. Pick your battles, win your wars.
Goat.
Mar 6, 2014 at 8:56 pm
^agree. Really WAY worse things are going on it the world. And yes, there are way worse thi8ngs happening to animals… and some just for some peoples convenience^^.
The dog is cool, it has a tattoo.
Big f’ing deal. Relax people.
gb
Mar 7, 2014 at 7:20 am
AGREE!
Robert Fishback
Mar 7, 2014 at 12:41 pm
I agree, I to am a animal dog lover and saw this as the opportune time to carry out this tattoo without abusing the dog. I would like to see how the dog likes his tattoo. I bet he loves it.
gb
Mar 7, 2014 at 7:21 am
AGREE!
coronagirl
Mar 7, 2014 at 1:16 pm
Carry out this tattoo for his own selfish reasons. Obviously he needs counseling because he has no self confidence and needs to get it through his dog.
Jacque Gilmore
Mar 7, 2014 at 4:50 pm
I agree with you Anon. besides his dog would of probably had a collar on after surgery so it would of been the perfect time to tattoo him. I personally would rather tattoo my dog then have a chip stuck under his skin . at least if he should slip his collar people would know what to look for.
NO TATS On Dogs or Cats
Mar 15, 2014 at 8:51 pm
Jennifer….STFU
Eileen
Mar 6, 2014 at 9:02 am
Stupid STUPID people who don’t have a clue. Disgusting.
Jennifer
Mar 6, 2014 at 8:56 am
That is absolutely disgusting. It is just as bad as tattooing a child. Having my own tattoos, I know the pain and burning that is involved days following a tattoo. I can’t even imagine having major surgery at the same time which will impair the dog after. Im a doggy mommy, and I don’t want my baby to feel bad or hurt. To intentionally inflict un-consented pain onto an already ill animal is selfish, stupid and shows a complete lack of empathy.
jennifer
Mar 6, 2014 at 11:20 am
Also it’s nothing like tattooing a child, that statement is totally retarded.
jenna
Mar 6, 2014 at 12:16 pm
Jennifer, you are a bully. Using the word “retarded” is considered hate speech and bullying. Check it out. And then… Check yourself.
Anon
Mar 6, 2014 at 1:38 pm
It’s called Freedom of Speech, and you should be ashamed of yourself for expecting the government to legislate every aspect of life so you can go through it without being “offended” when someone disagrees with you.
Suki
Mar 6, 2014 at 8:35 pm
I agree Anon. also the over use of bullying is beyond annoying. as for the dog: tattooing it did NOT cause it pain. it was already under and its hair will grow back. as a species we do ALL sorts of UNnecessary procedures to our animals: from docking tails, cropping ears and even removing dew claws. are any of them REALLY necessary????? simple enough: “No”. i don’t see what the big deal here is. you are all more flustered about it, than that dog will EVER be! cripes, go save an abused dog that lives its life in a shelter…
NO TATS On Dogs or Cats
Mar 15, 2014 at 8:52 pm
Jennifer….STFU
gb
Mar 7, 2014 at 7:18 am
Jennifer, I have tats as well, NO pain or burning for days after!
it is minor, no big deal, the dog probably didn’t even notice. his other surgery probably bothered him more than the tat!
bess williams
Mar 6, 2014 at 8:50 am
It’s disgusting
karen
Mar 7, 2014 at 11:31 am
Not sure how I want to say this with out effending people, but I wonder where our freedom and animal freedom have gone. The thing is after reading a few of these replys I find some really judgement since I am a animal lover person. I feel that that guy if he is really serious about his dog is giving it a better chance on getting back home to him if it becomes lost and that it really no diff. then those places which do tats on animals for idea before. The dogs was as stated under anist. so no harm and since he was the one who was attending it I am sure he knew how to care for it after. If it was done cruely I would see the neg. but it was not done in cruely fashtion.
susan
Mar 7, 2014 at 12:01 pm
Have you ever had a tattoo? I have and you do not immediately become pain free, there is healing time and with that comes the itching from healing. And as this is not a human that understands do not scratch their first instinct is to scratch. Then comes infection. And so on. Do I think this “person” did this as an intentional form of abuse. But totally believe he did not think it through. And now what about the sicko’s that now has a new way to torture the animals
Rico Suave
Mar 11, 2014 at 11:14 pm
Dumbass – the dog will experience pain without ever knowing why. Unlike a human, he didn’t get to choose the art and has no idea it is there. Further, your assertion that it is an identifying mark that will help return the pet to it’s owner – when the animal’s natural fur grows back you wont be able to see the tattoo unless you know specifically where to search for it. A waste of time by an individual who was (in his own words) trying to make his dog, and by association, himself, cool. Idiot
Debs
Apr 19, 2014 at 10:16 am
seriously…..do you think pain goes away with a general anaesthetic? It shows how little you know about the subject. Propofol does not stop pain, it just renders you unconscious ( micheal Jacksons drug of choice ) it’s the pain relief medicine that stops the pain….back to the subject in hand, complete bell-end for tattoo’ing the dog. It looks stupid and ridiculous on a dog and by saying your dog is now cool?…pity it’s owner is without a brain or empathy for the dog who just had major surgery. The tattoo has just increased the dogs chances of infection.
Manel
Mar 8, 2014 at 6:38 pm
He can be an tatoo artist but not an intelligent individual. Pretty cruel & dumb person to say the least.How can you be happy to see your beloved pet is undergoinf sufferings & pains while you are punching and inflictinf his flesh with electrical instruments. What a bloody idiot this weired man Mista Metro. How can some people be so stupid and brainless even cannot think just simplest ways how to do things right. This type of stories is so depressing in so many ways and also infuriats & outrageous to say the least.