State Government law changes to affect dog owners from 1 November 2015

The City’s Manager Community Safety & Emergency Management, Trevor Prentis said from 1 November 2015 dogs older than three months must be microchipped.  

“The new rules will help identify lost dogs and quickly reunite them with their owners, reducing inconvenience and pound costs,” he said. 

“The City cannot renew dog registrations until microchip numbers are provided.  Failure to comply with the registration and microchipping requirements under the Western Australia Dog Act 1976 can result in a fine of up to $5,000.

“The City asks dog owners who are yet to microchip their pet, to take them to a vet as soon as possible. The procedure is quick and costs on average about $70.

“After microchipping is done, owners are asked to let the City know so that records can be updated.  If pets are already microchipped, owners are asked to kindly pass these details onto the City as soon as possible,” he said.

Records can be updated online, by telephone, fax or in person at the Wanneroo Civic Centre or the Council counter at Clarkson Library.

“If your vet believes microchipping is likely to adversely affect the health and welfare of your dog, they can issue an exemption certificate that you must provide to the City prior to 1 November 2015,” Mr Prentis said. 

 “We trust that responsible dog owners will understand the importance of assisting the City with this requirement under State Government law.”