By Kellie Tickner, Orchard Hills Veterinary Hospital Administrator.
MICROCHIPPING is a crucial step towards ensuring your pets safety and well-being. This simple procedure involves implanting a tiny microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, under your pet’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. This microchip contains a unique identification number that is linked to your contact details on the NSW Pet Registry.
One of the primary benefits of microchipping is its effectiveness in reuniting lost pets with their owners. If your pet goes missing and is found by a veterinarian, animal shelter, or council ranger, they can easily scan the microchip to retrieve your contact information from the NSW Pet Registry. This significantly increases the chances of your pet being returned to you promptly and safely.
To ensure the effectiveness of microchipping, it’s essential to keep your contact details up to date on the registry. If you move house or change your phone number, make sure to update this information promptly. This ensures that if your pet is
found, you can be reached without delay.
But what happens if you move interstate? Don’t worry; there’s a solution for that too. The Australian Animal Registry (AAR) is a national database that stores pet microchip information. If you relocate to another state, simply update your details on the AAR to ensure continuity in your pet’s identification process.
In New South Wales, only veterinarians and authorised implanters are permitted to perform the implantation procedure and access the microchip data bases. These professionals have the necessary training and expertise to ensure that the process is conducted safely and effectively. They will also provide you with the correct information for council registration.
If you need help with registration, ownership confirmation, or fees, you can contact Penrith City Council Animal Services. They can provide guidance and assistance in navigating the registration process and ensuring that you comply with all necessary requirements.
Remember, microchipping your dogs and cats is a responsible decision that can make a significant difference in ensuring their safety and peace of mind for owners. By ensuring your pet is microchipped and keeping your contact details up to date, you’re taking proactive steps to protect your beloved furry companions.
If you need any further information on microchipping your pet, give the team at Orchard Hills Vet Hospital a call on 4736 2027.
