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Microchipping
A safe, permanent form of identification that helps lost pets find their way home.
Microchipping your pet
Microchipping your pet is one of the most important things you can do to help them find their way home if they become lost.
A microchip provides your pet with a permanent form of identification. When a lost pet is found, their microchip can be scanned by a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, pound or council officer. The unique microchip number can then be used to locate the owner’s contact details on the relevant microchip registry.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a small electronic identification device, approximately the size of a grain of rice, which is implanted under your pet’s skin.
Each microchip contains a unique identification number. It does not contain your personal details, and it is not a GPS tracking device.
For a microchip to help reunite you with your pet, the microchip number needs to be registered with a recognised animal registry and linked to your current contact details.
Why should I microchip my pet?
Pets can escape through an open gate, become frightened during storms or fireworks, or simply wander further than expected. Even pets that normally stay at home can become lost.
A microchip gives your pet a permanent form of identification that cannot be removed like a collar or identification tag.
We recommend keeping your pet’s microchip details up to date and ensuring they are registered with the appropriate database.
What is a Victorian source number?
To implant a new microchip, an owner must supply a source number. This is a legal requirement for any animal born after the 1st of July 2020. The source number system exists to identify the person or organisation responsible for an animal before sale or adoption.
Pets are normally microchipped by a breeder or adoption organisation. However, if you are a new pet owner and your pet does not have a microchip, you will need to apply for your own source number.
How do I get a source number?
Source numbers are issued through the Victorian Government’s Pet Exchange Register.
You can apply for a source number online by visiting the Victorian Government Pet Exchange Register and completing the application.
Once your registration has been approved, you will receive your source number, which can then be provided when required for your pet’s microchipping or transfer.
Source numbers need to be renewed periodically. Check the Pet Exchange Register for the current registration requirements and fees.
Already have a source number?
If you already have a source number, please bring it with you or have the details available when your pet is microchipped.
You can also use the Pet Exchange Register to access information about your source number and your registration.
What happens when my pet is microchipped?
Microchipping is a quick procedure performed by a veterinarian or appropriately authorised implanter.
The microchip is inserted under the skin using a specialised applicator. Your pet does not need surgery or an anaesthetic specifically for routine microchipping.
Once the microchip has been implanted, we can scan it to confirm that it is readable and record the unique microchip number.
It is important that the microchip number is then correctly recorded against your pet’s details with the appropriate registry.
What if my pet is already microchipped?
If you’re not sure whether your dog or cat has a microchip, we can scan them at The Narre Warren Vet.
We can check the microchip number and help you understand what information you need to update or register your pet.
If your pet’s contact details are out of date, it is important to update them as soon as possible.
Your pet's microchip is not a GPS tracker
A microchip cannot tell you where your pet is.
It contains a unique identification number that can be read using a compatible scanner. The number is then used to identify the registry record associated with your pet.
For this reason, your pet should still wear a collar and identification tag with your current contact details.
Microchipping your new puppy or kitten
If you’ve recently welcomed a new puppy or kitten into your family, make sure you understand the microchipping, registration and source-number requirements that apply in Victoria.
If you’re purchasing or adopting a pet, ask the breeder, seller, shelter or rescue organisation for the animal’s microchip number and relevant source-number information.
Keeping these records from the beginning can make updating your pet’s ownership and registration details much easier.
Booking in a microchipping appointment
Whether you’ve just welcomed a new puppy or kitten into your family or you’re unsure whether your existing pet’s microchip details are correct, The Narre Warren Vet can help.
We can:
- Microchip your pet
- Scan existing microchips
- Confirm your pet’s microchip number
- Discuss microchip registration
- Explain Victorian source-number requirements
- Help you understand what information you need to provide
Give your pet the best chance of coming home
Microchipping is a simple and effective way to permanently identify your pet.
Make sure your pet’s microchip is registered and that your contact details are kept up to date.
Contact The Narre Warren Vet to arrange microchipping or have your pet’s existing microchip checked.
Ready to book a visit?
Book online in a few clicks or call our friendly team. We look forward to meeting you and your pet.