Why you need to microchip your dog
New puppies and dogs have to be microchipped within two months of first registration.
A 15-digit unique number assigned to the microchip helps identify your dog through our registration records and the National Dog Database. The microchip number will retrieve your contact details.
Under the Dog Control Act 1996, the following dogs must be microchipped:
- Dogs registered for the first time
- Dogs classified as menacing or dangerous
- Impounded unregistered dogs
- Registered dogs impounded for the second time
- Imported dogs with a microchip that does not comply with New Zealand standards.
Exemptions
Dogs used mainly for herding or driving stock do not have to be microchipped, unless the dog:
- has been classified as menacing or dangerous, or
- has been impounded when unregistered, or
- has been impounded twice if registered.
If your dog cannot be microchipped, you must provide a document from a registered veterinarian stating that it is not fit for microchipping by the required date.
Post it to:
Animal Management
Auckland Council
Private Bag 92300
Auckland 1142
Why we want you to microchip your dog
Microchipping helps us:
- identify dogs that are roaming or lost
- reunite dogs with their owners
- keep track of dangerous or menacing dogs.
If you do not microchip your dog
- It will be difficult for you to find your dog if it goes missing.
- You are committing an infringement offence and may get an infringement notice of $300 – visit Schedule 1 of the Dog Control Act 1996.
- The court may impose a fine of up to $3000 if there is a court hearing for the fine.
Let us know your dog's microchip number
You have two months, from when you register your dog for the first time, to provide us with your dog's microchip number. Your vet will give you several copies of this.
Go to Update your dog's details (including microchipping and desexing) and send us a vet certificate with a microchip barcode.
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