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Microchip For Life

From 1 May 2007, all cats and dogs being registered with a Victorian local council for the first time must be microchipped.

By Bass Coast Shire Council - 24th May 2007 - Back to News

Microchipping involves inserting a small computer chip under a pet’s skin that can be ‘read’ by a scanner, in order to retrieve the contact details of the pet’s owner.

Bass Coast’s Local Law’s Team Leader Kaye Hall says that once implanted, a microchip is a permanent form of identification which is effective for the life of the animal.

"The most important aspect of microchipping is that it could literally save your pet’s life," said Ms Hall.

Each year tens of thousands of impounded pets in Victoria cannot be identified. This means that many animal shelters are forced to euthanase lost pets because they can’t be reunited with their owners.

Ms Hall added that unlike a traditional collar and tag, microchips cannot be removed or fall off, making them an effective identifier.

"Microchipping gives owners confidence that they will find their pet if it is lost and ends up in a council pound, or is found injured and is taken to a vet clinic."

"And there are a range of other benefits with compulsory microchip identification," explained Ms Hall.

"For instance, microchipping also means problem pets, such as vicious dogs that attack people, can be easily identified."

"Another benefit to owners is that they will receive a discount on their pet registration fee if their dog or cat is microchipped."

Ms Hall said all cats and dogs aged three months and older must be registered and microchipped with the local council.

"Registration forms are available from our Customer Service Centres or on our website," said Ms Hall.

"And don’t forget, once your animal is microchipped, make sure you update the information on the microchip registry if you move house or your contact details change" said Ms Hall.

Pets can be microchipped by a vet or at a local council microchipping day. For more information, contact Bass Coast’s Local Laws team on (03) 5951 3311 or (03) 5671 2211 or visit the website at www.basscoast.vic.gov.au.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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