Victorians will be able to find out where their pet comes from with the introduction of a new online database called the Pet Exchange Register (PER).
From 1 July 2019, any person or business who is advertising to sell or give away a dog or cat will need a source number from the PER. The source number will identify the source of the dog or cat, that is, the individual, breeder, business or shelter.
Victorians getting a new furry family member will be encouraged to check the validity of an advertiser by searching the source number on the PER before they bring their new dog, cat, puppy or kitten home.
From 1 July, It is an offence to advertise the sale or giveaway of a dog or cat unless the microchip identification number of the animal and a PER source number are included in the advertisement. This includes newspaper, social media and other online advertising.
It applies to both the advertiser selling or giving away pets , as well as publishers that publish non-compliant advertisements.
