Having your pet run away or go missing can be an unsettling experience for pets and their owners. While you can do many things to keep your dog or cat safe, such as GPS devices and tracking apps, a pet ID tag is one of the best ways to ensure your pet will make their way back to you.
7 Reasons Why You Should Get Pet ID Tags
If your cat or dog does not go anywhere without you or mainly stays in your home, you may wonder why your pet needs an ID tag. A pet ID tag signifies that your pet has a home. With a tag, if your pet leaves your side, anyone who sees them will know they are not a stray. Having an ID tag can also prevent your dog or cat from entering a shelter as they wait to be returned home safely. Some additional reasons to purchase ID tags for pets include:
1. Lost Pets Happen Easily
Close to 10 million pets in the United States become lost each year. If your pet wanders away from home, an ID tag ensures the person who finds them can quickly contact you to bring about their safe return.
2. Unexpected Events Can Happen Anytime
Unexpected events such as a natural disaster, a car accident or your children leaving the door open can occur anytime without warning. Even if your pet is indoor-only, these events may affect them and leave them stranded far from home. Having your dog or cat wear an ID tag ensures you will be ready and other people can return your pet to you even if the unpredictable does occur.
3. Tags Help Get Pets Home Safely
Most people are more likely to stop and help an animal if it appears to be a family pet. Without a tag or ID, people may be less likely to approach your cat or dog, lowering their chance of rescue. With an ID tag, it is clear to everyone that your pet has an owner and that you are awaiting their safe return.
Some owners also include the word “reward” on their pet’s ID tag, which may encourage others to return pets more quickly. Before adding “reward” to your dog’s collar, ensure you can provide a reasonable incentive for your pet’s return.
4. Reunite Your Pet With Family Quickly
While microchipping is an effective way to keep track of your pet, any person who finds them must bring them to a shelter or vet to determine their owner. Pet ID tags make it easy for anyone to see your information and know where to take your pet.
5. Tags Remain Legible
One of the many great things about ID tags for pets is they display your contact information. Most ID tags feature your pet’s name and your contact information in legible text to ensure anyone who finds your cat or dog can read your tag. You can choose a tag that slides onto your pet’s collar or get a name tag and collar combo. Stainless steel Pet ID tags are also incredibly durable and will withstand scratches and smudges to remain legible throughout your pet’s life.
6. Tags Provide More Information
Does your pet have an allergy or a condition that requires special care? Unfortunately, your dog or cat cannot communicate that they have a health issue or need special attention. An ID tag displays to rescuers any medical issues your pet has so they can receive the proper care while waiting to return to you.
7. Tags Are Stylish
Dog and cat owners have endless options for customizing their pet’s ID tag, so it’s easy to find one that best matches their pet’s personality. Many tags allow you to customize features such as style, color and size. While it can take a while to choose an ID tag as you determine which design fits your pet’s personality, it is well worth your time.
What to Put on Your Pet’s ID
Unlike a microchip, anyone can read a cat or dog tag and get in touch with you immediately. Putting the correct information on their tag is essential to ensure your pet comes home as soon as possible. Your ID tag can be as plain or creative as you want, but make sure all vital information is present. Six things you may consider for your pet’s tag are:
1. Your Pet’s Name
As you explore what to put on your pet’s tag, don’t forget to include their name in bold letters or a larger font at the top of their tag. Even if a stranger calls their name, your pet will likely recognize it and be more willing to follow commands. Your dog or cat may also be less nervous if their temporary caretaker can call them by their name, making it a less stressful experience for everyone.
2. Phone Number
In addition to your pet’s name, your phone number should also be on their tag. While you may not want to give out your phone number to strangers, it is the easiest way for someone to contact you if they find your pet. You may even want to put a few different numbers on the tag to ensure people can still reach you when you are away from your primary phone.
3. Home Address
If you live in a small town, you might not need to be as detailed with your address on the tag. However, if you live in a larger area, you may need to put specific information such as your postal code and country.
4. Email Address
A short email address is also an excellent way for people to contact you if your pet goes missing. Email also allows them to send a video or picture to verify they have your pet without occurring messaging costs.
5. Medical Needs
Medical information is worth including if you can fit it on your pet’s tag. You should feature conditions such as diabetes and food allergies on the tag, so anyone who finds your pet will know how to care for them properly.
6. Other Relevant Information
It is also wise to include relevant information, such as any behaviors your pet may show which can surprise a stranger. For example, if your dog is responsive around cats, this may be something worth including on their tag. If your pet has a microchip, it would be helpful to include this information as well, for added security.
Keep Your Pet Safe With Providence Engraving
ID tags ensure the safety and well-being of your pet when they become lost. Along with a microchip, ID tags identify who your pet is and where you live to make it easier to return them to you safely.
At Providence Engraving, we know that losing a dog or cat can be a stressful experience which is why we want to ensure they are safe with our ID tags. Our selection of durable pet ID tags makes it easy for others to read your pet’s information so they can make their way back home sooner. To learn more about our ID tags, contact our team today.
