New registry aims to boost reunification with lost pets

Staggeringly though, as many as 37 per cent of microchipped dogs have incorrect or missing contact data.

Insufficient data lowers reunification chances with furry friends should they be lost.

While dogs are reclaimed at higher rates than other pets (60 to 70 per cent), outdated data could be a key cause when pets cannot be reunited with their owners.

A new microchip registry by Australian-owned company PetCloud gives pet owners full control over keeping their contact information current, potentially helping return thousands of lost pets to their families each year.

“For years, outdated microchip registration contact data has been one of the biggest barriers to reuniting lost pets with their families,” PetCloud chief executive Deb Webber said.

“We’re proud to launch a first for Australia — a pet management platform and Microchip Registry that gives pet owners more control through a simple, opt-in process.”

The government-licensed platform offers two options.

Pet owners can either choose to register their pet as a standalone experience, or opt in to sync their existing PetCloud profile details, one way, with the registry, making it significantly easier to maintain accurate contact records linked to their pet’s microchip and avoid extra paperwork.

“Lost pets are a national issue — and outdated contact details make reunions harder,” Ms Webber said.

“Many pet owners don’t even know which registry their pet is on. We’re giving Australians a convenient, simpler way to manage their pet’s microchip info and get found faster when every second counts.”

The registry aligns with privacy standards and integrates with PetCloud’s network of pet professionals, breeders, vets and councils.

The company aims to register more than 300,000 pets in the next 12 months.