Good Dog SA

New laws for cat and dog owners will come into effect on 1 July 2018. The laws and rules include: - Mandatory microchipping of dogs and cats - Desexing of dogs and cats born after the 1 July 2018 - New rules for breeders who sell dogs and cats - Introduction of a State-wide database, called Dogs and Cats Online.

These new laws and rules will simplify dog registration process, make it easier to reunite lost dogs and cats with their owners, help identify and put a stop to puppy farms and reduce euthanasia rates.

Microchipping From 1 July, owners must microchip their dogs and cats by 12 weeks of age or at the point of sale.

Desexing Dogs and cats born after the 1 July must be desexed by 6 months of age or 28 days after purchase by the owner. Exemptions apply.

Breeders People who breed dogs and cats for sale after 1 July 2018 must register with the Dog and Cat Management Board as a breeder. Advertisements must include breeder registration numbers and other information must be provided to the buyer at the point of sale.

Dogs and Cats Online From 1 July 2018, Dogs and Cats Online will be the central database for microchipped and registered dogs and cats and registration payments. Dogs and Cats Online will also be the register of breeders.

Existing dog owners should receive a renewal notice in the mail during July 2018 with their dog’s new lifetime registration disc (replacing the annual disc) and instructions on how to complete their annual dog registration on Dog and Cats Online. If you do not receive a renewal notice for your dog, please contact your council.

In preparation for these changes: - microchip your dogs and cats and update your council - notify your council of any change of address - share this information amongst your networks.