Microchipping

Cats and dogs are legally required to have microchips in WA

The Cat Act 2011 (Cat Act) and the Dog Act 1976 (Dog Act) require that cats and dogs are microchipped. 

Dogs must be microchipped by the time they reach 3 months of age. Cats must be microchipped by 6 months of age. 

Regardless of age, all cats and dogs must be microchipped before being transferred to a new owner. 

When transferring the ownership of a dog or cat, you should ensure that the details on the microchip have been updated with the new owner’s details. 

Microchipping a dog or cat does not register them with the local government.

HomeSafeID

The Cat Act and Dog Act require cats and dogs in WA to be registered with prescribed microchip database companies listed in the corresponding regulations. 

On 23 July 2025, HomeSafeID was removed from the Cat and Dog regulations in WA and is no longer a prescribed microchip database company (MDC). 

Microchip implanters are no longer permitted to register a microchip with HomeSafeID. Any microchips purchased from HomeSafeID can still be implanted however must be registered with a prescribed MDC. 

Important information for pet owners

If your pet was registered with HomeSafeID, you should register with another MDC as soon as possible, to ensure you can be reunited with your pet should it become lost.

If you are transferring a pet to a new owner, or your details have changed, you must update details with a prescribed MDC within 7 days. 

Other prescribed microchip database companies 

Central Animal Records 
Website: car.com.au  

Phone: 03 9706 3187

Global Micro Animal Registry

Phone: 02 8338 9063

Petsafe

Phone: 02 8850 6800

Australasian Animal Registry
Website aar.org.au 
Phone: 02 9704 1450  

If you’re unsure which MDC your pet is registered with, you can check microchip numbers on petaddress.com.au. 

Microchips that were only registered with HomeSafeID will no longer show as registered. 

If you are unsure of your pet’s microchip number, please contact your usual vet, or arrange to visit a veterinary practice to check this.   

For further information please contact the Stop Puppy Farming team at the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety (LGIRS) at stoppuppyfarming@lgirs.wa.gov.au.

 

Page reviewed 29 July 2025
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