Lost pets can be found with microchips

Image: Beatrix the cat getting her microchip checked to ensure the details are correct.

With two long weekends in April, and the school holidays around the corner, Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown is reminding residents to think pets.

“Whether you’ve moved house recently or adopted a new pet, now is the time to make sure your cat or dog’s microchip details are up to date,’’ Cr Brown said.

“If their microchip has the correct name for your pet and owner’s details including contact number, it means we, or a local vet, can reunite you with your fur friend more quickly.

“For many people their pets are a key member of their family and if they go missing it can be heartbreaking. We always want to reunite people with their pets as soon as possible.’’

Wollongong City Council’s Project Director Animal Care and Impounding Services Daniel Kennedy said all too often pets who made their way into Council’s care had out-of-date contact details, or the details of the animal’s breeder and not their owner.

“We can’t emphasise it enough. If you have a pet, please make sure it’s microchipped and their details are correct,’’ he said.

“In addition to providing those details to your vet, you also need to make sure it’s on the NSW Pet Registry, which is managed through the NSW Government. That way, Council and other providers are able to access the microchipping information should your cat or dog end up in our care.”

If you have a lost pet, cats and dogs that end up in Council’s care are listed on our website on our dedicated Lost Pet pages. These pages are updated regularly during Council business hours.

They’re also promoted through Council’s Pet Connection Facebook page.

Council’s Customer Service team are able to assist residents looking to update their pet’s details or people can visit the dedicated website.