Protect your pet with a traceable identity
As pet owners, we all know how much our pets mean to us. They’re not just animals – they’re family. Whether it’s a loyal dog, a curious cat, or even a small pocket pet, the bond we share with them is irreplaceable. But, just like any family member, it’s essential to ensure their safety and well-being. One crucial step in protecting your pet in Western Australia is ensuring they have a traceable identity. Here’s why every pet in WA needs one and how you can make sure they are protected.
The importance of identification
Western Australia has specific laws that require pet owners to identify their pets, particularly dogs and cats. As of November 2022, it became a legal requirement in WA for dogs to be microchipped, and from 2024, cats will also need to be microchipped. While these laws are mandatory, they’re not just about compliance – they’re about giving your pet the best chance to be returned to you if they get lost.
Without proper identification, lost pets can end up in shelters, or worse, be involved in accidents. A microchip provides a permanent, non-removable form of ID that can be scanned by a vet, animal shelter, or local council to track down the pet’s owner. This simple procedure can save you from the distress and heartbreak of losing a beloved pet.
WA’s microchipping laws: what you need to know
Under WA’s Dog Act 1976 and Cat Act 2011, all dogs and cats must be microchipped by the time they are six months old. Microchipping is a quick, safe procedure that involves inserting a small chip under the skin, which contains a unique identification number linked to your contact details.
While microchips are the primary form of identification, it’s important to keep your contact details up to date in the microchip registry. If you move, change phone numbers, or rehome your pet, make sure the registry reflects these changes to ensure you’re contacted if your pet is found.
The benefits of traceable identity
- Increased chance of reuniting with lost pets
A microchip gives animal control officers, shelters, and vets the means to quickly identify and contact you if your pet is found. Unlike collars or tags, which can fall off, a microchip provides a permanent link to your information, offering peace of mind that your pet can be returned home safely. - Compliance with the law
In WA, the penalties for failing to microchip a pet can include fines, so microchipping ensures you’re meeting the legal requirements. But more importantly, it shows that you’re a responsible pet owner who cares about their pet’s welfare. - Prevention of pet theft
A traceable identity reduces the chances of pet theft. Pets with microchips are less likely to be sold or rehomed without their owners being notified. - Travel and relocation
A microchip can make relocating with your pet easier, especially if you’re travelling interstate or internationally. All countries require pets to be microchipped for entry, and it can streamline the process if your pet ever gets lost during travel.
How to ensure your pet is identified
If you haven’t already, visit your local vet to get your pet microchipped. The process is simple, quick, and relatively inexpensive. Once your pet is microchipped, make sure to:
- Update your details
If you change your address, phone number, or email, update your contact information in the microchip registry. - Keep a collar and tag on your pet
While the microchip is the primary form of ID, a collar with a tag that includes your phone number is an additional safety net. - Check your pet’s microchip regularly
Ask your vet to check that the chip is still functioning and properly registered at every visit.
A traceable identity is not just a legal requirement – it’s a key step in ensuring your pet’s safety and your peace of mind. With microchipping laws now in place for both dogs and, soon, cats in Western Australia, there’s never been a better time to make sure your pet is properly identified. By taking these steps, you’re not only following the law but also showing your commitment to the health, happiness, and safety of your pets.
If you’re unsure about the microchipping process or need assistance with registration, contact the team at Ascot Vet. Keeping your pet safe is just one more way to show them how much you care.
