🐾 What to Put on a Pet ID Tag: A Simple Guide for Pet Parents
So, you're getting a new pet ID tag—yay! Whether you're shopping for a brand new puppy, adopting a rescue, or upgrading from a jingly old tag that’s seen better days, you might be wondering: what exactly should I put on it?
You're not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we hear, and it totally makes sense. After all, your pet's ID tag is more than just a cute accessory—it’s their ticket home if they ever get lost. So let’s break it down.
🐶 1. Your Pet’s Name (Optional, But Popular)
Most people choose to include their pet’s name on the front of the tag—and honestly, we think it adds a lot of personality. It helps a good Samaritan call your pet by name and makes the tag feel more custom and “them.”
BUT—some folks choose not to include a name, especially if they’re worried about someone using it to lure their pet. Totally your call! If safety is your top concern, you can stick with just your contact info.
📱 2. Your Phone Number (Must-Have!)
If you put nothing else, make sure your phone number is on the tag. Ideally, a mobile number you’ll actually answer. This is the fastest way for someone to contact you if they find your pet wandering.
💡 Pro Tip:
If you have a second household number or partner’s number, you can add that too—especially if you have room on the back of the tag.
🏠 3. Your City or Address (Optional but Helpful)
While you don’t need to include a full address, many pet parents choose to add their city or neighborhood name so finders know if your pet is far from home. It can also help shelters or neighbors connect the dots faster.
If space allows, something like:
East Nashville, TN
…does the trick!
🐾 4. Medical Needs or Special Notes
If your pet has a medical condition or requires meds, you might want to include a quick note like:
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Needs meds
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Deaf
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Diabetic
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Friendly / Not friendly with dogs
This kind of info can be life-saving—or at the very least, help whoever finds them handle the situation appropriately.
💬 5. A Short Message or Reward Note (Optional)
Some people like to add a short message like:
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Call my humans
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Microchipped
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Reward if found
Just keep it short and legible—space is limited!
🛑 What NOT to Put on a Pet Tag
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Too much text: Tags need to be easy to read, especially if your pet won’t sit still.
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Tiny fonts: The more you cram in, the smaller everything gets. Stick to the essentials.
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Your pet’s license or microchip number: This info is useful, but it belongs on separate tags or in vet records, not on your ID tag.
🐕 A Quick Word About Tag Types
Not all pet tags are created equal. If your pet hates jangly noises or traditional engraved metal tags fade too fast, silicone pet tags are a great alternative. They’re silent, flexible, and still completely customizable—plus, they come in fun shapes and colors that actually match your pet’s personality.
(Shameless plug: we make them. And we think you’ll love them.)
✅ Final Checklist: What to Put on Your Pet’s ID Tag
Here’s a quick recap:
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✔️ Pet’s name (optional)
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✔️ Your phone number (required)
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✔️ City or neighborhood (optional)
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✔️ Medical needs or special notes (if applicable)
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✔️ A short message or reward note (if space allows)
At the end of the day, the best pet ID tag is the one that helps your furry friend get home safe—and makes you smile every time you see it on their collar. 💕