IT’S CHECK THE CHIP DAY! ARE YOUR PETS DETAILS UP-TO-DATE?
15 August is Check the Chip Day — a day to check on your pets’ microchips and ensure they’re working and up to date. Microchips are essential for keeping your pets safe. Many lost dogs and cats reunite with their families thanks to their microchips.
Did you know ….
- In the Financial Year of 2022/23, AWLQ experienced a noticeable increase in stray animals entering our care – we took in 946 more homeless animals than in the previous year of 2021/22.
- Microchips play a crucial role in reuniting lost pets with their families. However, an alarming 25% of impounded microchipped cats have outdated contact information, making owner contact impossible. While 60 – 70% of dogs are reclaimed, only 2 – 10% of impounded cats across Australia find their way back home.
- Microchipping is more than a simple procedure; it’s a lifeline that connects pets with their families. A missing pet can be a deeply traumatic experience, but an updated microchip increases the chance of a happy reunion.
So what can you do today?
Make an appointment with your nearest AWLQ Community Vet Clinic for microchipping if your pet isn’t already microchipped (then make sure that your pet’s chip is immediately registered).
Check your already-microchipped pet’s registration information in the microchip manufacturer’s database, and make sure it’s up to date.
Make sure your pets wear a collar with identification, including their name and your correct contact phone number.
Updating your pet’s microchip registration
Suppose you know your pet’s specific microchip ID number. In that case, you can visit petaddress.com.au to search for your pet’s microchip. Once you have these details contact the manufacturer to ensure your info in their database is current.
You can see your veterinarian if you don’t know the microchip number. They’ll be able to read your pet’s chip and give you more information. Or you can contact any of the following databases:
- Australasian Animal Registry
- Central Animal Registry
- HomeSafeID
- Petsafe
- Global Micro Animal Registry
- Companion Animal Register – NSW residents only
- Dogs and Cats Online – SA residents only
Have you checked your dog’s microchip information to ensure it’s current? Will you help spread the word for Check the Chip Day?
So, check the chip – by ensuring your pet’s chip has the most current info, you’ll give them a much better chance at getting home if they ever get lost.
Have you lost a pet?
The experience of a missing pet is deeply distressing and emotionally overwhelming for many pet owners. When a pet goes missing, it’s not just the uncertainty of not knowing where they are or what has happened to them that can cause anguish. It’s the loss of a unique bond and connection that can be incredibly painful. In case your pet goes missing:
- Search locally – check your neighbourhood; someone may be keeping your pet safe.
- Contact authorities – reach out to your local council, animal shelters, and vet clinics.
- Utilise social media – list your pet missing on lost and found pages.
Don’t give up – cats are often found weeks or months after they go missing. AWLQ has resources to assist you during this time.
AWLQ has developed a variety of resources to assist you during this time. These provide the essential steps to help you find your lost cat or dog and to help you find the owners of lost pets.
