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  6. 111-2022

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111-2022: Importance of accurate recording of microchip numbers in cats and dogs intended for import to Australia

28 June 2022

Who does this notice affect?

This notice is for all pet transport companies and importers of cats and/or dogs to Australia.

What has changed?

The department has noticed an increase in microchip numbers being incorrectly recorded on permit applications, RNATT laboratory reports and RNATT declarations. The incorrect microchip number is often not identified until the cat or dog is close to their date of export.

Identification requirements

A government approved veterinarian must scan the microchip at each veterinary visit. The scanned microchip number must be correctly recorded on all documentation.

Cats and Dogs intended for import to Australia must be identified by a microchip that can be read by an ISO compatible reader. Microchip numbers starting with 999 are not acceptable because they are not unique.

There is a requirement that RNATT laboratory reports do not have amendments relating to the microchip number.

Consequences of incorrectly recorded microchip numbers

If the microchip cannot be read or is recorded incorrectly in the cat or dog's documentation, the cat or dog cannot be imported to Australia.

Applicants may be required to provide further information to verify microchip numbers. If the microchip number is incorrect on a laboratory report, a new test will be required using a fresh sample collected from the animal, after the microchip number has been re-scanned and verified by the veterinarian. This process leads to increased costs and extended waiting periods, which often causes distress to importers.

What you can do

Ensure the preparing veterinarian scans and verifies the animal’s microchip number before taking blood or performing other procedures in preparation for export.

Confirm the microchip number is correctly recorded on all documents prior to applying for an import permit. 

If an error is detected, contact imports@aff.gov.au as soon as possible for advice. Do not have a laboratory report changed before contacting the department.

Further information

Importers are encouraged to check our website regularly or subscribe to our mailing list for up-to-date information as import conditions can change without notice.

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Call 1800 900 090

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Page last updated: 12 July 2022

We acknowledge the continuous connection of First Nations Traditional Owners and Custodians to the lands, seas and waters of Australia. We recognise their care for and cultivation of Country. We pay respect to Elders past and present, and recognise their knowledge and contribution to the productivity, innovation and sustainability of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries.

Artwork: Protecting our Country, Growing our Future
© Amy Allerton, contemporary Aboriginal Artist of the Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Gamilaroi nations.

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