Did you know that in Western Australia it is compulsory for all cats and dogs to be microchipped?
Let’s look closer at microchipping for Western Australian pets so you can understand more about your responsibilities and what the process entails. If you own a cat or dog in Western Australia. it’s compulsory as per Australian law to have your pet microchipped in most states and territories in Australia. The only states that do not require microchips are South Australia and the Northern Territory. Visit RSPCA website here and find more about regulations in your state as age limits and registration of your pet vary for each state.
What is Microchipping?
Microchipping can be completed quickly and easily by your vet at the clinic. With no more fuss or pain than a vaccination, a small microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, will be implanted just under the skin at the back of your pet’s neck.
Once the chip has been implanted, it is able to be scanned, with details such as your pet’s name, your contact address and your phone number existing on a national database. This way, if your cat or dog ever wanders and gets lost, loses their collar, or is even stolen, their microchip can be read by vets, animal shelters and local councils who can then easily get in touch with you. You must remember to update your details with the database if you move house or change the phone number.
At What Age Must Cats and Dogs Be Microchipped?
Under Cat Act 2011, Sections 14 & 23 all cats over the age of 6 months and Dog Act 1976 dogs over 3 months must be microchipped.
While microchipping is not compulsory when the dog comes into your ownership, but recent changes to the Dog Act require microchipping for all dogs in Perth and WAby November 1, 2015. It’s best to arrange their microchipping while your kitten or puppy is still young, for their security and your peace of mind.
Do You Need to Microchip Your Pet if They Are Unwell?
If your pet is unwell, your vet may not think microchipping is a good idea for them at the time. If microchipping could adversely affect the health and welfare of your pet, your vet may issue you with an exemption certificate that you can take to your local government.
Microchipping Your Cat or Dog in Port Kennedy
At Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital, microchipping is included in our range of popular and affordable wellness packages for your pet. With specifically tailored packages for cats, dogs, puppies or kittens, these packages provide regular preventative care for the health of your pet. As well as being kept safe and secure by their microchip, your pet will be able to receive regular check-ups to ensure ongoing good health, preventing the risks of illness and disease.
If your cat or dog not microchipped, it’s time to see a vet. Do you need to have your kitten or puppy microchipped? To protect your furry friend or to learn more about the process, simply book an appointment with Port Kennedy Vet Hospital veterinarian today.
Do you need to have your kitten or puppy microchipped? To protect your furry friend or to learn more about the process, simply book an appointment with Port Kennedy Vet Hospital veterinarian today and learn about our full range of microchipping services.
