How often should pet identification tags be replaced?

To ensure continuous protection, it is necessary to replace pet identification tags at appropriate intervals. Faded inscriptions usually warrant replacement every 2 or 3 years for brass or plastic identification tags. Any change in medical diagnosis necessitates immediate correction. A monthly inspection will disclose the beginning of wear or deterioration, which, before it becomes serious, renders the tags worthless in case of an emergency.

Expect different material life spans. Stainless steel components last 5 years or more. Tagging systems using plastic will fail in 18 months. I found this out the hard way when my Retriever's plastic tag faded completely during a beach vacation. I switched to a steel tag. Humidity hastens tarnishing on brass components, requiring more frequent replacement than found with the silicones.

Medical alerts are always immediate. When I noticed my dog was diabetes prone, I ordered new tags specifying his insulin needs within 24 hours. Not perfect, of course, because QR tags can be changed, but if we didn't change his tags when faculties were changed in my dog to indicate medical alerts, it would be unfortunate when it was needed. Keep your phone directory or emergency notes updated!

Create a monthly inspection routine. Check tags during grooming. Check the legibility of the engraving in poor lighting conditions. Replace cracked rings with new ones. I always keep spare tags when traveling, since I lost one in the mountains. Proper maintenance will prevent identification failure at AP's greatest need.

Read the full article: Pet Identification Tags: Essential Guide