Microchipping: Your Pet's Permanent Safety Net

Whether you have a curious kitten or a playful puppy, young pets love to explore. But what happens if they wander too far and cannot find their way home? That is where microchipping comes in. It is quick, painless, and gives your pet the best possible chance of being returned to you safely.

What Is a Microchip?

A microchip is a tiny electronic device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is quickly and safely implanted under your pet's skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Each chip carries a unique identification number that links your pet back to you in a national registry.

It is not a GPS tracker. A microchip only works when scanned by a vet, shelter, or council officer. It does not track your pet's location, and your personal details are only accessible to authorised professionals.

Why Every Puppy and Kitten Should Be Microchipped

• Permanent identification: Collars and ID tags can fall off. A microchip stays with your pet for life.
• Lost and found: If your pet is found, any vet or shelter can scan the chip and contact you right away.
• It is the law: In Victoria, cats and dogs must be microchipped and registered with your local council by three months of age.
• National coverage: We recommend registering your pet's microchip with a national registry such as Central Animal Records (CAR) for Australia-wide coverage.
• Peace of mind: Microchipped pets are far more likely to be reunited with their families. Most lost pets without a microchip are never returned home.

Is It Safe?

Yes. Microchipping is a fast, safe procedure that requires no surgery or anaesthetic. The chip is inserted through a needle, much like a routine vaccination, and takes only a few seconds. The chip is made from biocompatible materials that are safe for your pet and designed to last their lifetime.

Mild redness or swelling at the site is very rare. Most pets barely notice the procedure.

What to Expect at the Appointment

The area is cleaned, and the chip is inserted under the skin. Your vet will scan it immediately to confirm it is working. You will receive the microchip number and registration details to take home.

We recommend checking the registry (such as Central Animal Records) approximately seven days after your appointment to confirm your pet's details have been successfully uploaded.

Keeping Your Details Up to Date

The chip is only as useful as the information attached to it. If you move house or change your phone number, update your details in the registry promptly. This is free to do and takes just a few minutes online.

Council Registration

Once your puppy or kitten turns three months old, council registration is required by law. Desexed and microchipped pets usually qualify for a reduced registration fee. Ask us for your microchipping certificate to present with your council registration.

Book Your Appointment

Microchipping can be done at any routine health check or as a standalone visit. Call us on (03) 9592 9811 or book online. We also recommend a quick-release collar with a current ID tag as a handy backup to your pet's microchip.