Pet Exchange Register to improve pet sale transparency

You can now easily find out where your new pet has come from with the introduction of Animal Welfare Victoria’s new Pet Exchange Register. 

The register is an online database that generates a unique source number for individuals or businesses wishing to advertise a dog, cat, puppy or kitten for sale or give away in Victoria. 

It will improve the traceability of dogs and cats in Victoria and ensure responsible pet breeding by allowing councils and Animal Welfare Victoria to more effectively monitor those acting unlawfully.

If you’re getting a new furry family member, you’re encouraged to check the validity of a seller on the register before bringing your new dog, cat, puppy or kitten home.

As of 1 July, advertisements for the selling or giving away of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens in Victoria must now include a valid microchip number, as well as a source number generated from the new Pet Exchange Register; which identifies an individual, breeder, business or shelter. 

Any advertisement without a valid microchip number or source number generated from the register is an offence. This applies to advertisers selling or giving away dogs, cats, puppies and kittens, as well as publishers of the advertisements.

Any person or business who is advertising to sell or give away a dog, cat, puppy or kitten needs to be enrolled on the register. 

For more information or to enrol, visit Animal Welfare Victoria.