Microchipping
All dogs and cats must be microchipped by the time they are twelve weeks old. They need to be microchipped before they can be registered.
What is the Microchip?
The microchip contains a 15 digit number which is unique to your pet. Once microchipped, this number, your animal's details, and your contact details are placed on the statewide Companion Animals Database which can be accessed by all local councils in NSW.
The microchip is essential if your pet goes missing. If someone finds your cat or dog it will be scanned for the chip number and you can then be contacted and your pet returned to you.
Updating Your Details
Even though your pet has a microchip, if you fail to keep your contact details updated on the companion animals register we will be unable to contact you in the event that we, or any other member of the public, ever picks up your pet.
Therefore it is vital you contact Council if any of the following details change:
- Home phone number
- Mobile number
- Primary address where the animal is kept
All of these details can be easily changed over the phone by contacting Council on 9840 9814 (you must have your microchip number). If you like you can also update your details using the Change in Details form
The only details that cannot be updated simply over the phone is if there is a change of ownership. In this case a Change of Ownership form needs to be completed that both parties (old and new owner) must have signed. Notification of change of ownership is the responsibility of the 'old' owner (the person selling or giving away the animal). Failure to do so may result in a fine of up to $550 or up to $2200 for a dangerous or restricted dog.
Please feel free to contact Council on 9840 9814 if you would like us to check that your details are up-to-date. All you need to provide us with is your microchip number and we can provide you with peace of mind that you can be contacted should your animal ever go missing.
Collars and Nametags
Even though your pet has a microchip, Council still recommends that all pets also wear a collar and nametag. This means that if your pet is picked up by a member of the public (who would not have a microchip scanner!) they can still call you straight away and you can be reunited with your pet much faster.
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