It’s Hip to Microchip

By Helen Burns | Dated August 25, 2016

Are your pet’s microchip details up to date?
How do you know if the details on the Pet Registry are correct?
How do you get them back if they disappear?

So how does it all work?

You’re all probably familiar with the grain of rice-sized microchip that is implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades of pets.
Now there are no personal details stored on the microchip. Instead, each chip has a unique number recorded on it, and is detected using a microchip scanner. Authorised people such as vets, the pound and council rangers are able to access the registry database and contact you via the details that you provided on registration.

So, here’s the clincher.

The microchip is only useful if your contact details on the register are up to date. So, if you move house, change phone number, or if your pet changes ownership, then it is essential to update your details on the NSW Pet Registry as soon as possible.
To do so, firstly you will need to set up a user profile on the NSW Pet Registry website at www.petregistry.nsw.gov.au and then enter your pet’s microchip number. If you need the microchip number, please phone Gordon Vet on 9498 3000.

What are the laws for dogs?

Must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age or before being sold or given away, whichever occurs first
Must be registered by 6 months of age. This is a separate process to the microchipping although it uses the microchip number. Registration is done through local council to the NSW government pet registry. Pets only need to be registered once in their lifetime.
When outside your property, all dogs must wear a collar and tag with the dog’s name and your address or phone number on it.

And the laws for cats?

All cats (born after 1st July 1999) must be microchipped and registered as with dogs. They do not have to wear a collar and tag.