The Importance of Microchipping, Registration, and Keeping Your Details Updated

As a pet parent, one of your top priorities is ensuring the safety and well-being of your pet.

One of the most effective ways to do this is through microchipping and proper registration. It is also a requirement in every state, and failure to do so can result in some hefty fines! 

What is a Microchip?

Before diving into the importance of microchipping, let's understand what a microchip actually is:

A microchip is a tiny electronic device, a little larger than a grain of rice, that is implanted under your pet's skin, typically between the shoulder blades. The chip itself doesn't have a battery or moving parts. Instead, it contains a unique identification number that can be read by a special scanner.

Here's how it works:

1. The microchip is implanted by a Veterinarian or implanter using a hypodermic needle. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort, similar to a routine vaccination.
2. When a scanner is passed over the area, it emits a low-frequency radio wave that activates the chip.
3. The chip then transmits its unique ID number to the scanner.
4. This ID number is linked to your contact information in a pet recovery database.
   

What is the difference between Microchipping and Registration

It's crucial to understand that microchipping and registration are two separate processes, although they work together to protect your pet.

Microchipping

• Microchipping is the physical implantation of the tiny chip under your pet's skin.
• It provides a permanent form of identification for your pet.
• The microchip itself only contains a unique identification number.

Registration

• Registration is the process of recording your contact information and linking it to your pet's microchip number in a database.
• It involves providing your name, address, phone number, and other relevant details to a pet registry service or local council.
• Registration is what allows authorised individuals (such as Vets & Council Rangers)  to contact you using the microchip number.

Why Both are Necessary

• A microchip alone won't help reunite you with your pet if your contact information isn't registered and up to date.
• Registration without a microchip means there's no permanent way to link your pet to your contact information if they lose their collar and tags.

Think of it this way: the microchip is like your pet's permanent ID card, while registration is like filling out the emergency contact form for that ID. Both are essential for the system to work effectively.

Why Microchips are Better than Collars or Tags

While collars and tags are important and should still be used, microchips offer several advantages:

1. Permanent: Unlike collars or tags which can fall off, break, or be removed, a microchip remains with your pet for life. It can't get lost or damaged.
2. Uniqueness: Each microchip has a unique number, eliminating any confusion about ownership that might arise with common pet names on tags.
3. Tamper-proof: Microchips can't be altered or removed easily, providing a more secure form of identification.
4. Durability: Microchips are designed to last for the lifetime of your pet and don't wear out like tags can.
5. Universal: Most Animal Shelters and Veterinary clinics have microchip scanners, making it a widely recognised form of identification.
6. Safety: There's no risk of the chip getting caught on something and injuring your pet, which can happen with collars.
7. Required for Travel: Many countries require pets to be microchipped for international travel, making it essential for pet owners who move or travel frequently.

It's important to note that microchips should be used in conjunction with collars and tags, not as a replacement. Collars and tags provide immediate visual identification, which is crucial for someone who might find your pet in the neighbourhood. The microchip serves as a failsafe if the collar or tag is lost or removed.

Why Microchipping and Registration Matter

1. Permanent Identification: Microchips provide a permanent form of identification for your pet. Unlike collars and tags which can fall off or be removed, a microchip stays with your pet for life.
2. Increased Chances of Reunion: If your pet gets lost, a microchip significantly increases the chances of a happy reunion. Animal Shelters and Veterinary clinics routinely scan found pets for microchips.
3. Proof of Ownership: In case of pet theft or disputes over ownership, a registered microchip can help prove who the rightful owner is.
4. Travel Requirements: Many countries, including Australia, require pets to be microchipped for domestic and international travel. Having your pet microchipped in advance can make travel preparations easier.

The Importance of Keeping Your Details Updated

Life changes happen - you might move houses, change phone numbers, or update your email address. It's crucial to keep your pet's registration details current. Here's why:

1. Quick Contact: If your pet is found, up-to-date information ensures you can be contacted quickly.
2. Avoid Delays: Outdated information can lead to delays in reuniting with your lost pet.
3. Legal Requirement: In many jurisdictions, keeping your pet's details current is a legal requirement.

Chips Story 

A perfect example of just how important microchipping and up to date details is the story of Chips, a Border Collie who became lost for over a month and ended up 400km from home in Blackbutt a month later. After being fed by locals for weeks, her microchip was scanned by RSPCA staff, leading to a heart-warming reunion with her family in Roma! Read more. 

Rules and Laws in Australia by State

In most parts of Australia, you’ll need to register your dog or cat with both the local council and a national database. Some areas have different rules, but it’s still important to keep your pet’s registration details up to date in both places to make sure you’re covered.

Here's a State by State breakdown:

Victoria

• All dogs and cats must be microchipped before being sold or given away, or by 3 months of age.
• Pets must be registered with the local council by 3 months of age.
• Fine: On-the-spot fines can be issued, typically around $385, for failing to register your pet with the local council.
• Once the pet is registered in the state of VIC, this registration cannot be transferred to another database within Australia.

Queensland

• Dogs must be microchipped before reaching 12 weeks of age or before being sold, whichever comes first.
• Cats must be microchipped before reaching 12 weeks of age or within 7 days of acquisition, whichever comes first.
• Registration requirements are set by individual local councils, not at the state level.
• Most councils require dogs to be registered annually.
• Cat registration is mandatory in some councils but not others.
• Fine: Fines can range from $266 to $800, depending on the local council, for failing to register your pet.

Western Australia

• All dogs must be microchipped by 3 months of age.
• Cats must be microchipped by 6 months of age.
• Dogs must be registered with the local government.
• Registration periods can be for 1 year, 3 years, or lifetime, depending on the local government's policies.
• Cats typically do not need to be registered, but this can vary by council.
• Fine: Fines can be up to $400 for failing to register your dog or cat with the local council.

Tasmania

• All dogs must be microchipped by 6 months of age.
• Cats born after July 1, 2009, must be microchipped by 6 months of age.
• Dogs must be registered annually with the local council.
• The registration year typically runs from July 1st to June 30th.
• Cat registration is not mandatory at the state level, but some councils may require it.
• Fine: Fines can range up to $840 for failing to register your pet.

Northern Territory

• All dogs must be microchipped by 3 months of age or within 14 days of acquiring the dog, whichever is later.
• Dogs must be registered annually with the local council.
• Registration requirements for cats vary by council - Darwin City Council, for example, requires cat registration, while many other councils do not.
• Fine: Penalties vary by local council, but fines can be up to $200 for failing to register your pet.

Australian Capital Territory

• All dogs and cats must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age or within 28 days of acquisition, whichever occurs later.
• Dogs must be registered annually.
• Cat registration is not required, but cats must be microchipped.
• Fine: Fines of up to $200 for failing to register your pet.

New South Wales

• It is compulsory for your pet to be registered on this State based database, called NSW Pet Registry. 
• All dogs and cats must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age or before being sold or given away, whichever happens first.
• All dogs and cats must be lifetime registered with the local council or NSW Pet Registry by 6 months of age.
• Some councils offer discounts for animals adopted from pounds or shelters.

South Australia

• It is compulsory for your pet to be registered on this State based database, Dogs and Cats Online (DACO). 
• All dogs and cats must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age.
• Dog registration is mandatory and must be renewed annually by August 31st.
• Cat registration requirements vary by council - some require it, others don't.
• Fine: On-the-spot fines of $170, with potential higher penalties if the case goes to court, for failing to register your pet.

Remember, these laws can change, so it's always best to check with your local council for the most up-to-date information. It's important to note that fines can differ depending on the local council's enforcement policies and any specific circumstances surrounding the offense.

So why register with a National database if it’s not compulsory in NSW or SA?

While the NSW Pet Registry and Dogs and Cats Online are a fantastic resource, it has one major limitation: it only covers that state. If you travel with your pet or face a situation where they go missing outside of NSW or SA, the registration will not help. Protect your beloved pet by registering with a National Database, ensuring they are covered no matter where you are in Australia.

Making It Easy with Global Micro Animal Registry

The Global Micro Animal Registry (GMAR) offers a streamlined process for pet registration and information updates. Here's how it can help:

1. National Database: GMAR provides a single, comprehensive database for pet information, accessible across all of Australia.
2. Easy Updates: You can easily update your contact information online anytime, ensuring your details are always current. Be aware! Some other registries charge for updates.
3. 24/7 Emergency Support: GMAR offers round-the-clock support, so you can access help whenever you need it.
4. Multiple Pets: You can register all your pets under one account, making management simpler.
5. Registration: GMAR offers a one off registration fee for Standard members for just $10
6. Privacy: GMAR is committed to ensuring that your privacy is fully protected, taking every measure to maintain the highest standards of security and confidentiality.

Added Benefits:

• GMAR sends out a Missing Pet Alerts when you upgrade your registration from Standard to a Gold Membership. 
• Enjoy exclusive discounts and promotions as registered members
• Get lifetime alerts with a QR Coded Pet Tag for only $19.99 (inc. free shipping)
• Their call centre is 100% Australian-based
• Have peace of mind knowing your pet is registered with a reputable National Registry

Microchipping and properly registering your pet is more than just a legal requirement - it's a crucial step in being a responsible pet parent. By ensuring your pet is microchipped and your details are up-to-date, you're providing an extra layer of protection for your pet. With services like the Global Micro Animal Registry, the process is easier than ever. Don't wait - make sure your pets details are up to date!