Dog identity tags

I adore dogs, and have the fortune of meeting lots of dog owners in many parts of the world over the years. We exchange ideas and information ranging from dog identity tags and dog food to the cheapest dog insurance. One common thing we share is that we not only love our dogs but consider them part of the family.

But interestingly, many dog owners are not aware of laws in their respective countries when it comes to identifying their pets!

In the United Kingdom, for instance, a law on dogs was introduced many years ago, yet many pet lovers are ignorant of it - their pets do not have dog identity tags! One of the key provisions of the Control of Dogs Order 1992 states:

"The Control of Dogs Order 1992 mandates that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the name and address (including postcode) of the owner engraved or written on it, or engraved on a tag. Your telephone number is optional (but advisable)."

Its unbelievable the number of dog owners out there who will show off that awesome diamante collar they had bought for their cute pooch, or how they had spent tons of money on bedding, food treats and toys, but it never occured to them to buy that all important item - dog identity tags (some refer to it as pet id tag )

Yes, when you buy a dog, grab hold of a dog identity tag as well.

Pet identification is very important. Let me give you an example. In the UK, you may be fined up to £5,000 if your dog is caught in public without it.

Another example. You just bought an ultra expensive doggie. One day, he decides to bolt off to "explore" the neighbourhood. Do you think anyone who found him will be able to contact you, or bring it back to your house? Without dog identity tag (pet ID tag, embroidered dog collar, and microchipping), there's very little chance of seeing your dog ever again should it go missing.

Hence, remember, it is vital to get a pet id as soon as possible to avoid problems - dog missing, or tangling with the law.

As to the best type of dog identity tags to buy, generally thicker, high quality ones are recommended. This is to avoid them wearing out. Dog identity tags used to be boring in designs, but shrewed designers like K9 and Pucci have come up with something which suits their personalities. The Pucci and K9 pet ID tags (see pics below) are, in fact, more than just functional items. They are also fashion statements! You may want to consider those, if you think your dogs deserves them.

It is also wise to have the dog collar embroidered with your name and/or phone number. This may prove useful in the event that your dog identity tag came loose.

Another good thing to have is to get your dog chipped. It is mighty useful if it is ever taken back for scanning by the vets or police.

Talking about dog id tags, if possible go for those 'deep engraved' ones. They are very different from the much cheaper 'scratch' engraved id tags which will wear out very quickly. Those deeply engraved ones, often on chunky nickel plated metal, can last for years, and the engraving can be read clearly.

In the event that your pets already have dog identity tags, now is a good time to take a good look at it again. See if the engraving remains clearly legible, and check whether your personal details are up to date.

In a nut shell, if your dog/s have dog identity tags, wear embroidered collars with your personal details on it, and are microchipped, then your confidence level about the wellbeing of your dog should be sky high.

More information on this site - NYC Dog Walkers