Free microchipping dates extended

Free microchipping days have proven so popular that Townsville City Council will extend the program through to the end of the year.

With appointments for previous events booking out, Council has finalised dates for the program to run through to December and has increased the time available for appointments by two hours to allow for more bookings.

Community Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability Committee chairperson Maurie Soars said it was good to see such a strong uptake on the program.

“Microchips are a vital part of being a responsible pet owner and it is great to see the community taking up the offer of a free microchip for their furry friends,” Cr Soars said.

“We originally had dates locked in until the end of the financial year, and with the demand of the program continuing, we have extended these dates all the way up until December.

“We have also increased the times slots available on the day to allow for more people to book their pet in every month.

“The only criteria for anyone wanting to get a free microchip is that their dogs must be registered, or cats approved with Council before booking.”

Cr Soars said microchips allow pet owners to be reunited with their pets if they are lost.

“Our pets are an important part of the family and it is important that we know that they can be returned home safely if they become lost,” he said.

“It’s great that we have been able to continue the program to the benefit of pets and their owners throughout the pandemic and into the rest of this year.”

Each event will run from 9am until 2pm at Townsville’s Animal Care and Adoption Centre on Tompkins Road, Shaw, with one event held every month.

To book an appointment, residents must call Council on 13 48 10.

Free microchipping dates:

• 19 May
• 30 June
• 28 July
• 25 August
• 22 September
• 20 October
• 17 November
• 15 December