A NSW Government website

Lost pets

Ensuring your pet is microchipped and registered on the NSW Pet Registry makes it much easier for someone to return your pet to you if it gets lost. Use your NSW Pet Registry profile to report missing pets. This locks your pet’s information so no ownership details can be changed while they are missing.

When someone finds your pet, they can use a scanner to check your pet’s microchip number – these are often used by veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and council rangers. Approved people can then contact you using the details you provided on your NSW Pet Registry profile.

I have found a lost pet. What should I do?

How to find your pet’s microchip number

The microchip number should be on

  • your pet’s vaccination certificate
  • your pet’s desexing certificate
  • other documents provided by your vet.

If you don’t have the microchip number, contact your vet or local council. They may be able to help over the phone if you can give information that clearly identifies you as the pet’s owner.

You may need to have your pet scanned by a vet or council ranger. They can give you a Verification of existing microchip (M1) (PDF, 155.33 KB) form with your pet's microchip number to take to council.