Microchipping FAQ
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What is a microchip?
Why microchip?
Do all dogs have to be microchipped?
When must these dogs be microchipped?
Where can my dog be microchipped?
Can other dogs be microchipped?
What about dogs that have already been microchipped?
Do microchipped dogs still have to be registered?
What if I choose not to microchip my dog?
The microchip is a rice-sized digital I.D. tag that is inserted into the scruff of a dog’s neck.
The chip’s unique I.D. number gives the dog a secure lifelong identity.
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This enables lost, stolen, abandoned, stray, injured or dangerous dogs to be identified and matched with their registered owners, no matter where they are found or in what condition.
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It also allows councils to send better factual information to the National Dog Database, so that, as a nation, we can have a better handle on dog numbers, breeds and their roles in our community.
Do all dogs have to be microchipped?
No. Dogs who were registered before 1 July 2006 do not have to be microchipped. Nor do working dogs (any dog kept solely or principally for herding or driving stock). Microchipping is only required for:
non-working dogs being registered for the first time;
dogs classed as dangerous or menacing after 31 November 2003, and
impounded dogs who are unregistered or are repeat offenders.
When must these dogs be microchipped?
Owners must get their dogs microchipped within two months of registration - or beforehand if they like.
Where can they be microchipped?
The council offers a free microchipping service for newly registered dogs (but not dogs classified as dangerous or menacing).
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Newly registered working dogs may also take advantage of this service, getting the benefits of a permanent identity and greater security,even though they are not legally obliged to be microchipped.
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Our Animal Control Officers are trained and certified to insert microchips and will advertise the time and place in each area. Most vets will also insert microchips.
Can other dogs be microchipped too?
Yes. Our Animal Control officers can do it for a fee of $20 per dog. This service will also be available from most vets, though fees may vary.
What about dogs that are already microchipped?
If a dog has already been microchipped by someone other than the council (i.e. a vet or another local authority), the owner will need to prove this by showing the relevant documents and letting an Animal Control Officer scan the dog to verify its ID.
Do microchipped dogs still have to be registered?
Yes. Microchipping is a one-off event, but annual registration is necessary to update the details of each dog's age, address and owner.What if I choose not to microchip my dog despite the law saying I must?
The fine for not complying is $300 per dog.
For further information on any of these issues please contact Animal Control on 347 2800 or 318 8338 or animalcontrol@selwyn.govt.nz