How to Choose a Pet ID Tag

If your precious pet should ever get lost (heaven forbid), the first thing the kind person who finds her or the shelter where he ends up will check--is the ID tag--and choosing the right one requires a little more thought than you might think. Here are some things to consider when deciding on a pet tag.

Instructions

    • 1

      First and foremost, you want a durable tag that will last and withstand whatever terrain or test your pet puts it through with letters that won't wear off easily. If it's a well-made tag, either thick plastic or metal should hold up; however, stainless steel is considered the longest lasting. Certain companies offer lifetime guarantees.

    • 2

      Pick out a shape and color. Pet tags come in a variety of shapes including circles, hearts and dog bones. Choose a color to match the collar or one that will show up best with your dog's coat. For instance, a purple tag may clash with an orange collar and a tan tag may blend in too much with a tan coat.

    • 3

      Choose a reflective tag that will show up at night. Lucky Pet is a company that offers SCOTCHLITE metal or plastic reflective tags and guarantees them for life (see Resources below).

    • 4

      Pick a tag that is easiest to read, especially if your pet will make it difficult for someone to approach. Make sure the letters show up well against the background. Lucky Pet also offers two-tone tags with an engraved plastic base in one color and another color framing the information.

    • 5

      Decide what information you would like the tag to contain. Some owners prefer to keep it short and sweet with just the pet's name and phone number for security reasons. Some owners prefer to have their address included; this may come in handy in case the finder of your pet has a hard time contacting you and would find it easier to deliver the pet to your house.