Microchips are the effective way to future proof your pet against becoming lost, with vets and pounds routinely examining strays for microchips in the hope that they can reunite the owner with their precious pet.
What is a microchip?
Microchips are a permanent digital ID about the size of a grain of rice inserted in the back of the neck between the shoulder blades with a needle and no anaesthetic. They are read by using a scanner passed over the animals back to read the microchip’s unique code.
Some microchips can be felt under the skin with thin layers of tissue growing around the implant which holds it in place once inserted. Microchips can move as the animal grows, which most vets know and there is no risk of damage to the pet’s vital organs.
How do I check or update my details on my pet’s microchip?
The key to success with microchipping is of course to ensure that your information is up-to-date in the various animal databases where your details can be found, that way vets and shelters can reunite you with your pet. Pounds cannot track the microchip without current contact information. There are a number of registers that record this information and most will provide an option for you to make changes online.
It is illegal to sell a dog without microchipping it and a state law requirement to have your animal microchipped. Puppies and kittens can safely be microchipped from six weeks of age. If you have any questions about microchipping, need to know your pet’s microchip number or, want to arrange to have your pet microchipped, please contact us.
Please call 02 9809 4788 for an appointment to consult with our veterinarian
