How to register a pet
Pet registrations in NSW are coordinated by NSW Pet Registry, but Council can help with updating pet details and ownership, and the relevant payments.
Microchip your pet
Cats and dogs must be microchipped before they are 12 weeks old.
- Microchips can only be created by a vet or an authorised microchip implanter
- Once your pet is microchipped, the details will be stored in the NSW Companion Animal Register and you will receive a certificate.
Create a Pet Registry account
Visit the NSW Pet Registry website and register as a pet owner or breeder.
- You will need your driver’s licence, passport or Medicare card ready to register
- If you already have an account, you can move straight to Step 3.
Link your pet
Register your pet to your account using their microchip number. Your dog and cat must be registered before they reach 6 months of age. If your pet is older than 6 months upon registration, a $19 late fee will be applied.
- Contact your vet if you don’t know your pet’s microchip number
- This is where you’ll pay the lifetime registration fee, and annual permits if applicable.
Registration costs
Dog registration fees
$21 late fee if dog is older than 6 months
Cat registration fees
$21 late fee if cat is older than 6 months
Annual pet permits
The NSW Government imposes annual permits for not desexed cats and restricted and/or dangerous dog breeds. This is to help promote responsible pet ownership and improve animal welfare standards.
Dog permit
Cat permit
Does not include registered breeders or cats with medical exemptions
Supporting Companion Animals
Annual fees go directly to the Companion Animals Fund which pays for local pounds and shelters, ranger services, dog recreation areas, and education programs. Find out more information on annual permits via the Office of Local Government.
Microchipping information
Microchipping is a fast and harmless procedure that allows pet owners to be reunited with their dog or cat if it’s taken to a vet or Maitland Animal Management Facility. Maitland Animal Management Facility offers microchipping for all kinds of pets.
All cats and dogs must be microchipped by the time they’re 12 weeks old, or when they’re sold, whichever comes first.
Microchip transfers
It is the responsibility of the current or former owner to transfer the microchip number into the new owner’s name.
Free pet microchipping
Each year, we host pop up microchipping events to promote responsible pet ownership and improve access to pet microchipping.
Each session is free and bookings are not required. Proof of Maitland residence, such as a driver’s licence or rates notice, should be presented upon arrival to qualify for free microchipping.
Please make sure your dogs are on leads and cats are contained in a cat carrier when attending. If you believe your animal is aggressive or does not act well with other animals, please call the Maitland Animal Management Facility prior to attending.
Litters cannot be microchipped at this event. If you want to bring more than two animals, please call the Maitland Animal Management Facility.
Upcoming events
- Saturday 30 September, 10am to 2pm
Kerr Street Oval (off Logan Road), Rutherford - Wednesday 4 October, 10am to 2pm
Verge Street Off Leash Park, Telarah - Saturday 7 October, 10am to 2pm
Bristol Street Park, Woodberry