Swan Hill Rural City Council is giving residents the chance to microchip their pets for free and registrations are now available.
Council’s Regulatory Services Coordinator Trish Ficarra said the program would run over a week commencing on Monday, 23 November.
“Bookings are required and you will need to allow 15 minutes on the day of your appointment for your pet’s microchipping,” she said.
Ms Ficarra said that any animal born after 1 July 2020 is required to have a source number from the breeder to be eligible to be microchipped. This source number is a microchipping requirement under the Domestic Animals Regulations 2015.
“If you are the breeder or owner of any pet born after 1 July 2020, you can register for a source number online at https://per.animalwelfare.vic.gov.au/.
“Please be aware no appointments will be taken if a source number is not supplied for any pet born after 1 July 2020,” she added.
Ms Ficarra highlighted the importance of microchipping.
“Microchipping your pet is one of the best ways to ensure that you can be reunited with your dog or cat if they get lost.
“Council has an ongoing commitment to promote responsible pet ownership throughout the municipality,” she said.
Ms Ficarra said as an added incentive, Council is also offering free registration up until 10 April 2021; this is a one off discount on the animal’s registration.
“Registration fees are normally $132 for a cat or dog. If your cat or dog has been desexed the registration fee is discounted to $44. A certificate must be provided to confirm your pet has been desexed.
“While it is not compulsory to desex your animals it is highly encouraged to avoid any accidental or unwanted animals and to also take advantage of discounted registration prices.
Ms Ficarra said that once people register, they will then receive a date and time slot for their microchipping appointment.
“There are a total of 50 microchips available with a limit of two per household, so make sure you book early to secure your pet’s spot,” Ms Ficarra said.
Microchipping will take place at the Swan Hill Pound at 6907 Sea Lake Swan Hill Road.
Ms Ficarra said the free microchipping program was scheduled to return to Robinvale in February 2021.
