Astonishing Dog ID Must-Knows: Unleashing Secrets!

Budget tip:

A dog tag is cheap. Yet it could be that one piece of identification and information that can reunite you if your dog gets lost. You don’t have to spend much money or time on an ID tag as long as you choose a proper one. It’s a major win-win for your dog’s well-being and your wallet!

Why is a dog ID important?

You may not think that your dog will ever escape. But anything can happen at any given moment.

For example, I recently had a little Yorkshire Terrier cross a busy street and race to my front door. Thankfully, she had a clear and readable pet tag with her name and her human’s phone number. It was a successful reuniting. 

However, if a lost dog or cat doesn’t have an ID that is easy to read or even updated, then they could end up in a shelter. Or even worse, your furry buddy could be euthanized if he’s not claimed or adopted within a certain amount of time. 

What should a dog tag include?

While tag space is limited there are generally three to four lines for name, number, and whatever else you deem is most important. The space can include information such as:

• Dog Name
• Phone number
• Alternative phone number
• Notice of microchipping
• Alert to a health issue
• Medication needs

Why do some pups not have a dog ID?

There can be a few reasons that a pet parent wouldn’t put a tag on their dog. These include:

• It’s not viewed as important
• Can’t remember to buy one
• Hating the jingling sound
• Microchipped and think that’s sufficient 
• Dog has trauma and can’t handle the sound or even a collar

Does a dog ID replace microchipping?

No. While the two can work in combination together neither is a replacement for the other. 

How does a microchip work?

When your dog escapes and is picked up by a rescue or shelter, he will be scanned to detect an ID number from a microchip. If one is found, then you, your contact person, and even your veterinarian will be alerted as to your dog’s location. This will allow your vet to send any necessary health records. Additionally, a chip can provide detailed health information including epilepsy, heart issues, blindness, deafness, allergies, or necessary medications.

How does a dog ID work?

A dog ID will simply have your dog’s name, a contact number, and possibly any health issues or whatever you choose to include on the third or fourth line. But to be effective the ID print should be clear and large.

Additionally, the information must be current and engraved. The reason for laser engraved or etched pet tags is that the information can’t be worn off, worn down, or fade over time. Moreover, the nameplate should be clear print (no script or small print) and legible from a distance, if necessary. 

However, if your dog is in an accident, breaks free of his collar, or even slips out of his collar then you still have the microchip identification method for reuniting. But, chips can slip. When they do move, it generally will require a more skilled person to detect the ID number.

Thus, while both a dog ID and microchip are essential, neither can be skipped. They work in conjunction with each other and also as a backup for the other to help reunite a lost pet. 

Note: When I adopted Henry, I was told he wasn’t chipped. However, the next day at his first vet visit he was scanned by a skilled tech person and one was discovered.

Can a rabies tag or dog license replace a dog ID tag?

No. A rabies tag is essential and required by law. It notifies people that your dog is updated on the rabies vaccination. Therefore, if your dog should nip someone or another dog, your dog won’t be suspected of rabies and consequently euthanized. 

Additionally, a dog license lets the county or city easily identify your dog if he’s picked up roaming. While a dog license is another way of identifying your pup, it may not include all of your contact information or your canine companion’s health issues.

Moreover, if you are traveling, this information may not be accessible. However, a dog license does help to support your local shelter and identifies your dog as your “property” in the eyes of the government. Also, if your dog is picked up without a license, you might have to pay a fine before you can be reunited.

What types of dog IDs are available?

There’s an ID for every dog and pet parent’s needs. However, I recommend you stay with a larger print engraved tag. You can choose from a variety of tags including:

1. Different shapes and colors. You can choose from designs including a pawprint, dog bone, skull, heart-shaped, rectangular, round, hydrant, butterfly, badge, flower, bow, star, dog house, glitter, and even rhinestone styles. These metal tags are great for design and functionality.

2. Covered tags to reduce the dog tags jingling and plastic silencers to reduce the sound.

For example, my dog, Henry has a red bone dog ID tag on his collar very similar to this one with a silencer.

3. Personalized dog collars. These will include your dog’s name and a contact number. They can work great if your dog has trauma with a jingle sound. However, if your canine is very furry so the number isn’t easy to read, then this may not be the best choice. Otherwise, you and your dog may love this dog personalized collar.

4. Nameplates for dog collars. These are like a dog tag, but attached to the collar almost like a buckle, and act as a noise silencer. This type, like this one can be a great option.

5. Dog harness with your dog ID tag embroidered on the side. This type works well if your dog has trauma with anything around her neck. Of course, a service dog tag is generally denoted on the dog harness. A personalized dog harness like this one can be a terrific option.

Additionally, many pet ID tags, pet identification collars, and harness name tags are reflective and most are also waterproof. Great added features!

Does it take a long time to get an engraved dog ID?

No. Whether you order online or purchase in person, the process is quick. For example, when I bought Henry’s ID tag, I went to Petco and purchased the blank metal dog bone ID. Then I laser-engraved the tag for free as I left the store. The whole process maybe took 10 minutes.

Of course, you can spend $25 or more on custom dog tags with a designer-type feel. But really all you need is the metal ID that gets engraved. This generally costs about $8. Although, if you want the noise duller or plastic silencer cover type it is about $9.

Even a personalized dog collar with an ID sewn into it is affordable at about $16. However, you will most likely need to replace it more often than a traditional metal tag. Also, you generally can only include your dog’s name and contact number since the space is limited.

A personalized ID harness can cost $40-50. But it can be a lifesaver for your dog. Although, you may need to replace a harness more often than a metal ID. 

However, proper and regular washing of a personalized collar or harness will help to it in good shape.

Note: It’s always recommended to remove your pup’s collar and tags before putting them into a crate to avoid injury.

How does a dog ID save me money?

Who doesn’t like to save money? But when you can ensure your best canine’s well-being in doing so, it’s a no-brainer! Therefore, consider the following possible expenses. 

Related articles:

• Dog Microchipping Saves On Costs? True!
• Secret Benefit Of Dog Harnesses: Massive!
• Snag Quality Dog Equipment For Less! Save Your Wallet!
• How A Dog License Saves Dogs And Benefits You
• How To Find Vet-Approved Low-Cost Dog Vaccines
• Money-Saver! Best Dog Accessory Cleaning Tips!

Tag that doggy!

A simple dog ID may seem like another piece of pet accessories or not needed. But it’s actually a critical piece of equipment for your dog. More importantly, a tag along with a microchip can greatly increase the possibility of reuniting with your furry companion if you’re separated. 

Additionally, it provides your basic information such as your dog’s name, your contact information, and possibly any major health issue. Therefore, if your dog’s microchip isn’t detected at a shelter you can still be notified and reunited.

Basically, it’s a cheap way to keep your dog safe and help to eliminate a tearful ending full of regret. I know I make sure Henry’s tag is always clean and update it as needed. It’s affordable, easy, and good for both of us.