Dog and cat owners need to know that registration and microchipping aren't the same thing.
Corangamite Shire Council Ranger Daniel Boyle said microchipping isn't the only thing you need to do to get your pet home safely if it strays.
"There are three steps to keeping dogs and cats safe," Mr Boyle said.
"It's important to make sure your dog or cat is microchipped, the chip is kept up to date (ask your vet how), and the animal is registered with Council."
The microchip identifies your dog or cat as your property and gives your council important information about your dog's breed, size and home address.
"If the owner has done the right thing, when we find a stray we can scan it, type its chip number into an app on our phone, and call up the owner's details," Mr Boyle said.
"It's literally a five-minute job. If we pick up a dog or cat, we can take it home straight away—no pound or release fees.
"If it's not registered and its microchip hasn't been updated, the last known address might be the original breeder's.
"When we can't identify an animal, we need to hold it for eight days under the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
"We hold it at the pound until the owner is found and if not found then we rehome it through other organisations after the eight-day holding period.
"You can change the chip details online, or your vet can help.
"If you move home, be sure to update your pet's registration details with the Council you live in. Otherwise, we might not be able to get them home to you."
Mr Boyle said annual pet registrations are due on 10 April every year.
"There are 50% discounts for desexed animals and then a further 50 % off for concession card holders.
"Just provide a vet's certificate showing that the animal has been desexed when you submit your registration form online, at the Civic Centre or by post to Corangamite Shire, PO Box 84, Camperdown 3260."
The Domestic Animals Act requires dog and cat owners to microchip and register their animals that are three months of age or older with their local council.
Renewal payments can be made here, by BPAY, and in person at the Civic Centre, 181 Manifold Street Camperdown.
