What is a “Microchip”?
A microchip carries a number unique to your dog. This is very similar to a supermarket barcode. A microchip is a transponder, which means it responds to a scanner. It is not a transmitter and has no power source.
The microchip is implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades. The procedure is as simple as a vaccination.
Which dogs are required by law to be microchipped?
- Dogs classified as dangerous or menacing.
- Dogs impounded unregistered or dogs impounded more than once.
- Dogs being registered for the very first time after 1 July 2006 excluding working stock dogs.
If my dog is not listed above, can I still get it microchipped?
Yes, there are many dogs already microchipped by caring owners. Many exotic or expensive animals are microchipped all over the world. Talk to your local Veterinarian.
What are the benefits of microchipping?
If your dog is lost, stolen or has escaped and strayed, it can easily be identified. If your dog is stolen, there is nowhere in New Zealand where it cannot be traced if it is scanned. Every dog the subject of a complaint and every dog impounded will be scanned.
What happens if a microchip is not put in properly and cannot be scanned?
It is important the microchip is inserted in accordance with the regulations. Dog owners should ensure whomever is microchipping their dog is familiar with the regulations.
If it is not verified as being done properly (i.e. if the microchip doesn’t work or meet the NZ standards, or is not implanted on the back, towards the neck between the shoulder blades) the owner will need to have a new one inserted.
If it has been inserted correctly and verified by a vet or council, there should be no major problems scanning it.
Can the microchip ‘move around’ in the dog (and cause problems)?
The chances of this are extremely remote (less than 0.01%). A recent survey published in the British Journal of Small Animal Practice, reported that of an estimated 2.3 million animals implanted with microchips in the UK, there had only been 165 instances of a chip moving. This study also reported that there were only another 122 instances of other adverse reactions (such as infections or failure).
Once my dog is microchipped, will I have to register it?
Yes, microchipping will not replace dog registration. You will still have to register your dog every year.