What should you include on your dog's ID tags from Hot Dog Collars?

Nothing could be scarier to a pet owner than the thought of your pet getting loose and unable to find their way home! Pet identification tags have made it significantly easier to keep your pet safe in case of emergency.

Whether you are ordering a dangling pet ID tag or the type that attaches to the dog collar, in our opinion, the only thing that MUST be included on your pet's tag is your telephone number.  Other things like name, address, microchip status, and cute sayings are optional and may have pros and cons associated with them.

• Phone Number - In our opinion, this is the single most important thing on your dog's ID tag.  Further, we recommend that you use your cell phone or a number that you know will be monitored while you are out looking for your dog. 
• Pet's name - Here's an odd take on this item....do you need a stranger to know your dog's name?  For me personally, I always used "I'm LOST" instead of a dog's name.  This way the person who finds your dog knows that it belongs to a family who is looking for him.
• Microchip Status - Many people like to include a microchip number or microchip status on their dog's pet tag.  Including the word "Microchipped" tells the person who found your dog that they can take it in and get more information about where it belongs - or including the actual microchip number may allow that person to just call a vet and give them the number to get more information so they don't have to load your dog up in the car to get more information about where he or she belongs. 
• Street Address - If you have a phone number on the tag, you likely don't need the street address, plus adding too much information makes the text smaller and more difficult to read.  We are personally not a fan of including this on the tag.

With an accurate and clear tag on your pet's collar, you will greatly increase the chance you get a phone call from someone who has found them before you spend days of heartache worrying about them. Getting pet identification tags is crucial for any pet owner. Check out our full selection of Pet ID Tags here!

PS...the best defense is a good offense - make sure your dog's collar or harness is secure and adjusted appropriately and be careful when opening doors if you have an escape artist.  Check for holes or other escape opportunities in your fence or back yard, and teach good recall!