Wellington’s wagging goodbye to plastic registration tags for dogs in a bid to cut down on waste.

They’ll be replaced with a single metal tag that should last a dog’s lifetime – although owners will still have to pay fees annually.

Helen Jones from Wellington City Council said they will be a better friend to dog and planet.

She said they will provide a lightweight, durable option which won’t rust.

“They come in two different sizes, so if you’ve got a big dog or a little dog, you can choose what size you want.

“On the back of the metal tag we’re leaving it blank if you want to engrave your dog’s name and your telephone number – then that’s totally up to you.”

She said as many as 12,000 plastic tags have been sent out to owners annually because the colour has always changed after 12 months.

She believes tens of thousands will be in circulation now and they can’t be recycled.

Dog owners have been increasingly suggesting that the council should find an alternative, she said.

With the metal tags set to be launched this year, council staff have been pondering what they could do with all the plastic ones.

They contemplated an entry into the World of Wearable Arts awards but decided they aren’t  creative enough for that.

However, as the tags are small and light they do not result in a massive contribution to landfills.

Jones said the Hutt City Council has been involved in the metal tags’ plan from the start and will also be making the switch.

Selwyn District Council near Christchurch is also getting on board, she said.

“We’ve had a lot of interest from councils all through the country wanting to know more about it so I think it’s going to spread pretty quickly.”

Most importantly, dogs and their owners have successfully trialled the metal tag to ensure it’s not too heavy and doesn’t catch on things.

And the dogs’ verdict? “They loved it,” Jones said.