Carol Peterson is urging fellow pet owners to prioritise microchipping and ensuring their details are kept updated after her cat was discovered in Beveridge following a disappearance from his home near Melbourne.
In a heartwarming tale of reunion, ragdoll cat Jock is back home after a journey that took him nearly 100 kilometres away.
Jock went missing on September 30, 2023 from Carrum Beach in the south eastern suburbs of Melbourne. To make matters worse, Carol and Jock were set to move to Queensland two weeks after his disappearance.
"I flooded social media, put up posters and walked around local neighbourhoods yelling his name at all hours," Carol said.
"Everything was in motion for the move to Queensland, I was devastated but I had to go. Jock's microchip was my only hope that I would ever see him again."
Amazingly, almost four months after Jock disappeared, Carol received a call from Mitchell Shire Council's Local Laws team informing her that he had been found in Beveridge.
"I feel sorry for whoever was on the phone because their ears are probably still ringing from how loud I screamed when they said they found him," Carol said.
"A friend picked him up and called me when she had him. Jock started meowing and purring when he heard my voice.
"It was surreal. I can't thank the team at Mitchell Shire Council enough for their help in getting him back to me."
Reflecting on Jock's unplanned trip, Carol noted the importance of microchipping and keeping your records updated in ensuring lost pets are reunited with their owners.
"Microchipping and keeping your details up to date is something everyone needs to do. There's no chance Jock would have made it back if he wasn't registered," she said.
"When looking for Jock I saw a lot of animals that can't be reunited with their family because they aren't microchipped. It breaks your heart.
"Jock's now settling in and adjusting to life in Queensland. I can't express how relieved I am. An important member of my family is back because he was registered."
Mitchell Shire Council Mayor Councillor Louise Bannister said Jock's reunion with his owner highlights the importance of pet microchipping in safeguarding beloved animals and ensuring their safe return home.
"Council is committed to promoting the welfare of pets and encouraging responsible ownership practices," she said.
"We encourage all pet owners in Mitchell Shire and beyond to follow Carol's example and prioritise microchipping for their furry companions.
"It's a simple yet effective measure that can make all the difference in ensuring their safety and well-being."
Mitchell Shire Council pet registration renewals are due by 10 April each year for animals over three months of age.
Visit Council's website to learn more about pet registration and microchipping requirements or call 5734 6200.
