My pet's microchip is on a different database. Can I move it to CAR, or be on two?

First, check which database your pet is on

There are four national microchip databases: Central Animal Records (CAR), Australasian Animal Registry, Global Micro and PetSafe. The free checker shows which one holds your pet's record.

1. Go to the CAR microchip checker.
2. Enter your pet's microchip number.
3. Read the result. It shows whether the chip is registered on a national database, and which one.

The check is free and the results are instant.

What the rules are in your state

• Victoria: Once a pet is on a national database, it can't be moved to another database.
• Queensland: The law says that if you move your pet to another database, the original database must deactivate its record.
• Other states: You can move your pet to another national database. CAR doesn't encourage it, because it can leave duplicate records on more than one database. If you do move, it's up to you to make your record inactive on the old database. CAR can't request that for you.

Why duplicate records cause trouble

When two databases both hold a record for your pet, you have to keep both up to date. If you change your phone number on one and forget the other, a vet or council might find old details. That could slow down getting your pet home.

What to do instead

The simplest option is to keep your details current on the database your pet is already on.

1. Sign in to that database, or contact it if you're not sure how.
2. Update your phone number, email and address whenever they change.
3. Check the record again with the CAR microchip checker if you're unsure.

If your pet is on CAR, you can update online and it's instant. Forms sent by post, email or fax take a couple of days for our admin staff to process. You can sign in here or find the forms here.

If you've just bought or adopted a pet and the chip is still in someone else's name, that's a different situation. Read I bought a puppy or kitten. How do I transfer the microchip into my name?

If you still want to move your pet to CAR

This applies only outside Victoria. In Queensland, remember that the original database must deactivate its record. In other states, unless there's a very good reason to move, it's best to stay on the database your pet is already on. If you do move, you'll need to make your record inactive on the old database yourself, because CAR can't request it.

If you're not sure whether a move is right for you, call us first.

Good to know

• Moving databases is different from transferring ownership. A transfer changes who the pet is listed to.
• Council registration and microchip registration are separate records. Renewing or updating one doesn't change the other.
• The NSW Pet Registry and Dogs and Cats Online (SA) are state registers. CAR doesn't replace them.
• Once your pet is listed on CAR, you get a certificate. That's how you know it's done.
• If your pet is on another database, use that database's own process to update your details.

Questions? Call us on 03 9706 3187 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm Melbourne time) or email info@car.com.au.