What is a microchip?
A microchip is created by a few components encased with Bioglass. The size of the chip equates to the size of a grain of rice. The chip is inserted via a small needle between the shoulders under the animals skin. The chip contains a unique identification number (15 numbers) of that is specific to your pet and contact details which is read by using a microchip scanner. This number is registered with your Veterinarian and can be registered with your local council or an independent nationwide database such as NZCAR (New Zealand Companion Animal Register). This then means that your pet can be identified if it’s found lost and wandering by either the council or your local vet.
Who needs to register for a Microchip?
All dogs (excluding working dogs) are required to be microchipped within 3 months of registration (which needs to be done by the time they are 6 months old). It’s quick and easy and we recommend it’s done at the time of desexing at 5-6 months of age.
When you register your dog (which you can do here or at your local council on a scheduled date); your microchip number will be linked to your pet on the nationwide council database, which can be accessed by Animal Control also.
You can also register your pet with the New Zealand Companion Animal Database which is for all animals, not just dogs. This database is great because it can be easily accessed by vets and the SPCA and quickly gives us your owner contact information. This does incur a small fee to register, but once your animal is on it, it’s lifelong. You as an owner can also easily update your contact information if anything changes.
What if i loose my pet; it get’s stolen or injured?
An injured dog or one that is lost; will be picked up by the local council animal control officers/Animal welfare agency and be brought to the nearest Veterinarian practice; or be identified and reunited with the owner promptly depending on the animals current condition at the time e.g. injured.
If your pet is stolen; any animal practice or animal welfare agency will be able to scan the microchip and find the current contact details for the animal providing they are in contact with the animal. This is great for reuniting previous owners or determining who owns the animal. N.B. You can report your pet is stolen with the registering microchip database you are on so they are aware.
