Chip in for pet’s sake

PAKENHAM pet owners can microchip their pets at greatly reduced prices at the 2007 Pet Expo.
Cardinia Shire Council’s local laws team invites all pet owners whose pets are not already carrying an identification microchip to bring their pets, either on-leash or in suitable pet containers, to Cardinia Shire Offices, Henty Way, Pakenham on Saturday 17 March between 10am and 2pm.
The cost of microchipping a pet on the day is $20, which includes a life-long subscription with Central Animal Records.
Owners of dogs or cats which are microchipped are also entitled to a reduction in Council registration fees — less than one third of the price of the full registration fee.
Manager of Local Laws Alan Giachin said: “This is an excellent opportunity for residents to have their pets microchipped at a fraction of what it would normally cost.
“The process is relatively painless and involves a tiny chip (the size if of a grain of rice) being injected under the pet’s skin, by a qualified veterinarian.
“Microchipping is a simple and effective way to link a pet to its home and owner. Even responsible pet owners sometimes find their pets can unfortunately get lost or stolen or simply stray from home; a gate can blow open or the animal escapes from the property during lightning or thunder storms.”
Mr Giachin also said an incredible number of lost pets cannot be returned home because their owners cannot be located.
“Often the lost animals are not wearing collars or registration tags which makes it impossible to identify them. Microchipping lasts for the lifetime of the animal and ensures a speedy return to its owner.”