AirTag question...

Sure, Apple AirTags work with any Apple device - you just pull up the Find My... app on the iPad and it will be listed in the Items section.

Yes, an iPad can be used. The requirements vary based on what model iPad and what version of iOS it's running (basically, it can't be a very old iPad or an old one running a very old version of the OS).

From Apple:

AirTag - Technical Specifications - System Requirements and Compatibility:
Apple ID iPhone and iPod touch models with iOS 14.5 or later
iPad models with iPadOS 14.5 or later

It also requires that your Apple ID has been "upgraded" (cough, cough) to use two-factor authentication.

Of course, you will only be able to track it when you have a wifi signal.

there are many tags pn the market that work with the android.
https://thepointsguy.com/guide/apple-airtag-alternatives-luggage/
https://screenrant.com/android-airtags-best-alternatives/

As noted, you can use the Apple Air Tags with your iPad. I have one to track my luggage.

I bought this Tile for my brother who has an Andriod phone. He said it works well.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09B2WLRWX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have an iPad Mini 6 which is the newest Mini out there and yes, the AirTag shows up on the "Find My" list on there.

I just got a new iPhone last week and had some difficulty installing the AirTag but looked online and followed the direction on removing the battery 5 times, lol, and yes, worked beautifully. IF by some chance you can't get it installed on your iPad Mini, it's an easy fix.

I use Tile with my Android. Works fine.

I too use the Tile with my Samsung Galaxy S9+. No issues.

Yes, even with my "elderly" iPad mini 4, I found my dog last evening. He wears an AirTag attached to his collar as he, too, likes to travel!

Thanks!
Perhaps I’ll give a Tile a chance, then.