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Permanent Identification of Cats and Dogs

Permanent Identification of Cats and Dogs I Permanent Identification Technology I Implantation I Domestic Animal Registries I Frequently Asked Questions

New and significant legislation has come into effect in Victoria from 1 December 2005 regulating:

  • Microchip & scanner technology
  • Sale and distribution of microchips
  • The implantation of microchips
  • Registration and operation of registries
Legislation
Part 3A of the Domestic (Feral & Nuisance) Animals Regulations contains provisons for permanent identification systems for dogs and cats which commenced on 1 December 2005. This legislation will impact on the technology used, who can implant and requirements for licensing of registries.

Domestic (Feral & Nuisance) Animals Regulations 2005 (the Regulations) contains requirements which support the provisions in the Act. These documents can be found at Acts & Regulations.

This legislation applies only to the implantation of microchips in cats and dogs within Victoria.

Technology
The new legislation puts in place requirements as to the type of microchips that must be used as well as for the capability of scanners. Information on technology is available on the Permanent identification technology page.

Implanters
Only Authorised implanters can implant microchips into dogs and cats in Victoria. Information on who Authorised Implanters are and the requirements for implanters can be found on the Authorised Implanter page.

For information on upcoming veterinary implanter training see PDF below.

Seminars for veterinarians have now finished however those still needing to undertake the training program in order to meet legislative requirements being introduced on 1 March 2007 (note change of date previously 1 December 2006) can still complete the training utilising the training DVD. Contact the Victorian AVA for details of this training or to apply.

To view the attached PDF document you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader. A free copy can be downloaded from Adobe Acrobat (external link).

Flyer for Vet Microchipping Courses.pdf(PDF 182kb)

Registries
Any microchip registry which provides a microchip registry service in Victoria (other than Council registration databases) must be licenced with the Department and implanters must send information on cats and dogs microchipped in Victoria to a licensed registry. For more information on Registries, including the names of the licensed registries refer to the Registry page.

As of 1 December 2007 the following registries are licensed to operate in Victoria.

Australasian Animal Registry
Central Animal Records
National Pet Register
Petsafe Registry

See the Registries page for contact details.

It is VITAL that owners keep their contact details up to date with the licensed registry on which their animal's information is stored.

While this new legislation will put in place systems to facilitate the detection and linkage of your animals microchip to you if your contact details are out of date authorities will not be able to reunite you with your pet.

If you have more questions please look at the specific page, Frequently Asked Questions page or contact the customer service centre on 136 186.


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