Everything You Need to Know About Pet Microchipping
By: Responsible Group Australia Last updated January 19, 2023
Dog microchipping and cat microchipping have quickly become some of the most important ways for pet owners to identify their pets due to the low cost and convenience. Many pets will become lost at some point in their lives, and microchips are one of the best ways to ensure that your pet can be returned to you. Learning more about pet microchips can be helpful for pet owners and breeders alike, as most states and territories in Australia require pets to have one.
This article contains general information. Always consult with your veterinarian for medical advice specific to your animal/s.
What Is a Pet Microchip?
A pet microchip is a tiny computer chip about the size of a grain of rice. The chip contains an identification number that can be read with a scanner and then used to access information in a database, such as the pet’s owner’s contact information. Pet microchipping has become increasingly popular in recent years as it provides a reliable way for pet owners to ensure that a pet can be returned home if they are ever lost or stolen.
A pet microchip is typically implanted between the shoulder blades of an animal during a quick procedure similar to receiving an injection. The process is the same whether you have a large dog such as a Siberian Husky or Belgian Malinois, or a more petite breed like a Shih Tzu. The chip itself consists of an integrated circuit and antenna encased within biocompatible material, which means it won’t cause any harm or discomfort to your pet.
The chip also stores a unique ID number that corresponds with the pet’s profile in a central database. A vet or animal shelter will be able to quickly scan your pet for this ID number and access its profile in the database, providing them with important information about both your pet and how to reach you.
The risks associated with pet microchipping are minimal and typically restricted to minor side effects related to implantation procedure itself, such as swelling at the site where the chip was inserted. However, these side effects usually subside within several days without any further treatment required from a veterinarian. In extremely rare cases, some pets may experience an allergic reaction to the chip material; this too can be treated by removal of the device. Pet microchipping is recommended by veterinarians throughout Australia, as the process is mostly harmless and has numerous benefits.
Why Is it Important to Microchip Your Pet?
Pet microchipping offers many benefits for both pets and their owners. First and foremost, it provides peace of mind knowing that if your pet becomes lost or stolen, there is a greater chance of them being returned safely back home thanks to the unique ID number stored on the chip. It also serves as a good backup for traditional forms of identification such as tags or collars, which can easily fall off or become illegible over time.
Moreover, since the implantation process only takes seconds and requires no anaesthesia or painkillers, it is much more convenient than other more invasive forms of identifying pets such as tattoos or surgical markings. Finally, unlike other methods such as GPS tracking systems, microchips don’t require any additional costs after implantation such as monthly fees or replacement batteries.
Benefits of Microchipping
Pet microchipping offers many benefits for both pets and their owners. First and foremost, it provides peace of mind knowing that if your pet becomes lost or stolen, there is a greater chance of them being returned safely back home thanks to the unique ID number stored on the chip. It also serves as a good backup for traditional forms of identification such as tags or collars, which can easily fall off or become illegible over time.
Moreover, since the implantation process only takes seconds and requires no anaesthesia or painkillers, it is much more convenient than other more invasive forms of identifying pets such as tattoos or surgical markings. Finally, unlike other methods such as GPS tracking systems, microchips don’t require any additional costs after implantation such as monthly fees or replacement batteries.
Which States in Australia Require a Pet Microchip?
Most states and territories in Australia require that any dogs and cats sold as pets or adopted must be microchipped before sale. However, in certain areas, there may be exceptions for some working animals, such as stock dogs. Microchipping is not required in South Australia and the Northern Territory, but it is still advisable for the benefits listed above, regulations surrounding age limits before mandatory microchipping will vary in each state.
Refer to your state’s animal care and protection laws for more information, as the rules and regulations are subject to change. All our registered dog breeders must follow the RPBA Code of Ethics and all state and local legislation to ensure the best standard of care for their pets. If you are interested in becoming an RPBA breeder, click here.
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