Microchipping
Microchipping for Dogs and Cats
New legislation is in place that affects the way microchip (prescribed permanent identification device) implantation is performed on dogs and cats in Victoria. This new legislation and its associated regulations are an amendment to the Domestic (Feral and Nuisance) Animals Act 1996.
The legislation sets standards:
- In the use of consistent technology to ensure microchips will be detected (only ISO microchips can now be utilised in Victoria),
- For implantation, including who can implant a microchip,
- On data capture, scanning and the way information is handled, and
- On licensing of registries (Microchip registries must now be approved and licensed by the Department of Primary Industries).
Microchipping is compulsory for the following groups:
- Declared dangerous and restricted breed dogs,
- Any dog or cat acquired from a pet shop, pound, shelter or commercial breeder (>10 breeding animals),
- All new council registrations of dogs and cats as of May 2007.
The microchip is very small, the size of a grain of rice. It is implanted beneath the skin, at the back of the neck between the shoulder blades. On completion of the prescribed microchip form, the actual process of microchipping takes seconds and is well tolerated by most companions.
Carnegie Veterinary Clinic utilises ISO microchips only and have a multi-scanner capable of reading earlier non-ISO as well as ISO microchips.
Dr. Ketan and Dr. Kelly have both completed the approved course for AVA Microchip Accreditation. They have been assessed by the Department of Primary Industries and are authorised implanters of microchips in dog and cats.
Microchipping, which is permanent, unlike a collar, is currently the gold standard in re-uniting lost or injured companions with their parents. For further information on having your companion microchipped please contact the clinic on (03) 9563 5422.
