Responsible dog ownership - compulsory microchipping
MEDIA RELEASE - Responsible dog ownership - compulsory microchipping
June 2015
Dog owners are reminded that by 1 November 2015, all dogs must be microchipped.The Dog Act 1976, a state law which was amended in 2013 to bring in requirements relating to microchipping,is put into effect by the local government.The Act also outlines requirements regarding dog control, dogs barking, removal of dog droppings, dog attacks, dog registration and registration tags.
"Having your dog/s microchipped is just as important as registering them," explained Shire President Wade DeCampo. "Microchips are registered nationally, so no matter where you are in Australia, if your dog goes missing, a vet or ranger will be able to identify you as their owner, and reunite them with you."
The Dog Act 1976 stipulates that it is the responsibility of the dog owner to ensure that their dog is both microchipped and registered and if they have a change of address or other contact details such as phone number, both the Shire and the National database need to be notified of that change. Dog owners can visit the national Pet Register to determine which national database holds the information to their pet. Details are also provided to the owner when the dog is first microchipped.
The process for having dogs microchipped is relatively pain free for the animal, a minimal cost to the owner and can be performed by any veterinarian. The chip itself is about the size of a grain of rice and is implanted just under the skin, between the shoulder blades and the back of the dog's neck.
"It is a permanent means of identification, unlike collars and tags that often get lost, damaged or removed, and you are far more likely to be bought together with your dog again should they go missing," explained Cr DeCampo.
Infringements apply for dog owners who have not had their pet microchipped, registered and other offences under the Act. In addition, fees apply for when dogs need to be housed in the pound, which commonly occurs when dogs are picked up by rangers and their owner/s cannot be identified. Click here to see the Shire of Manjimup Fees and Charges, effective as of 1 July 2014 (subject to change 1 July 2015).
Click here to view the Department of Local Government's brochure on the Laws for responsible dog ownership.
