How to Recycle Pet Tags

For children, a pet's last loving act is to help them prepare for other grief later in life. It can be hard to want to let go of many of your pet's artifacts, especially something as intimate and personal as his tags. You can always bury your pet in his tags, much like burying a family member in a favorite suit. However, converting your pet's tag into a simple holiday ornament can give your family an annual reminder of the good times you shared.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire cutters
  • Red and green ribbon
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the tag from its collar and run a ribbon or chain through the hole. Depending on your choices and themes, this can serve as a Christmas tree ornament, key chain fob, pendant, charm or other piece of decoration or jewelry. As the years pass, you can even convert it to less frequently used items, such as a key chain fob early on and then a Christmas ornament when you just want to remember occasionally.

    • 2

      You can also give your next pet the same name and then re-use the pet tag. This practice is common among many families. If the tag is merely painted, instead of embossed, you can repaint it for use on a pet with a different name.

    • 3

      Create a scrapbook page, or entire scrapbook, about your pet. Mount the tag among the photos and other memorabilia.

    • 4

      Mount the pet tag in a block of wood -- or more exotic material if you have the ability -- for use as a paperweight, trophy or curio.

    • 5

      Actually recycle the pet tag. Most are made of aluminum, plastic or other recyclable materials. Who knows, the tag's material could wind up as part of the next space exploration vehicle.