Abstract: Undulations in ear side of tag, such as alternating ribs and troughs, permit air flow to area around stem of pin having conical head or point. Hole leading to socket well is larger than pin stem and the socket well is larger than the large end of the pin head to permit air flow to ear as well as permitting tag to move around pin to maintain air passages clear. Pin has a soft plastic base attached to stem opposite conical point and a hard plastic button larger than head of pin, surrounded by soft plastic. Pin stem has groove at button, which has holes and convex undersurface. Applicator has opposed arms on pivoted handles, one arm having a laterally enlarged platform with a rim on both sides and at rear, the latter to position the pin base longitudinally. Spring clip engages pin base and has slot to laterally position pin stem. Opposite arm has rimless surface engaged by tag head, to permit different angular tag positions, for about 260.degree..