Central Coast Council will host a free microchipping day on Saturday, February 16, at the Central Coast Animal Care facilities at Charmhaven and Erina.

Mayor Jane Smith said microchipping was one of the first steps in responsible pet ownership.

“Should your cat or dog ever go missing, microchipping helps reunite pets with their owners,” Cr Smith said.

“It’s an important and simple step in pet ownership, along with registering your animal and ensuring your contact details are up-to-date.”

Pet owners must microchip and register their new family member by 12 weeks of age, or when they are first sold, which ever happens first.

If owners fail to microchip their pet then they may be issued with a fixed penalty notice for $180.

“We know how important it is to have your pet microchipped and that’s why council is offering this free service,” Cr Smith said.

 “Each year the animal care facilities on the Coast receive a number of dogs and cats that have been abandoned.

“This number typically increases after the festive season, with many people giving pets as gifts and not realising the level of care needed to raise a pet.”

More than 45 per cent of cats and dogs that come into the facilities are not microchipped and less than 60 per cent of these are reunited with their owners.

Residents who have their four-legged friend microchipped, registered or who update their details will also receive a Happy Pet gift pack – a small bag full of treats, information, and a toy for their pet.

The day is also a great chance for owners to check that their contact information is up to date, and talk to staff on responsible pet ownership, including lifetime registration.

The free microchipping day will be held from 10am-4pm.

The SoCare Wyong Animal Care Facility is at 2 Depot Road, Charmhaven. Phone 4350 3184.

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