QR pet tag vs microchip vs GPS tracker: which do you need?

A tiny chip under your pet's skin that links to your details on a database. It can't fall off, but it can only be read with a scanner, usually at a vet or by the council. By law, all dogs in the UK must be microchipped by 8 weeks old, and in England cats must be microchipped by 20 weeks old.

Your details engraved on a metal tag. Anyone can read it, and it covers the legal requirement for dogs in public to wear your name and address. But space is tight, the details are visible to everyone, and you need a new tag if anything changes.

Anyone can scan it with their phone camera to open your pet's profile and contact you straight away. You can update it any time, add medical notes and keep your number private. It works alongside a microchip and your name and address on the collar.

Shows you where your pet is on a map, which helps if your pet roams. It needs charging, often needs a subscription, and doesn't help a stranger who finds your pet contact you.

• A microchip with up-to-date details. It's the law for dogs, and for cats in England.
• For dogs, your name and address on the collar or a tag. That's the law too.
• A QR tag, so anyone who finds your pet can reach you in seconds.
• A GPS tracker as well, if your pet is a roamer.