We get asked a lot here at Treats 4 Dogs what must legally be included on your dog’s ID tag as there seems to be a little confusion since microchipping laws came into force.
We can confirm that it is law in the UK that your dog has clear identification whether this be in the form of a tag or other identification methods (embroidered identification collar etc) (with exemptions for some working dogs). This is confirmed in The Control of Dogs Order 1992 and this order stipulates that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the owner's name (initial and surname), address and postcode, written on it or engraved on a dog identity tag. The penalty for not doing this is a fine of up to £5,000.
There are of course exemptions to this Order and they include:
any pack of hounds
any dog while being used for sporting purposes
any dog while being used for the capture or destruction of vermin
any dog while being used for the driving or tending of cattle or sheep
any dog while being used on official duties by a member of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces or Her Majesty's Customs and Excise or the police force for any area
any dog while being used in emergency rescue work
7. any dog registered with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association
You may think this is a lot of information to include on one tag but regarding the address, this can be in the form of a house number and postcode only.
It is also advisable to include a telephone number on your dog’s tag even though this isn’t law. Should the worse happen and your dog become lost the majority of use carry mobile phone when out and about and just one telephone call can reunite you with your four-legged friend.
Examples of the engraving information we recommend for dog tags are:
Mrs J Bloggs 44, KT10 1RR 01932 444 444
Another handy tip is to include ‘I’m Chipped’ on the tag. Although the majority of us dog owners know that the law states all dog’s must be microchipped non dog owners may not know this.
Why not take a look at our extensive range of dog ID tags. We guarantee you'll find something you like https://www.treats4dogs.co.uk/tags-id.
