The new laws could see you fined $330 on the spot.
News laws that came into effect on July 1 now require all sellers to provide an identification number when selling a pet online or in a newspaper.
From July 1st, those looking to sell or giveaway cats or dogs in NSW now need to include a microchip number, a breeder identification number or a rehoming organisation number when posting the advertisement.
The new laws apply to social media, online trading websites (e.g. Gumtree), newspapers, local posters, and community notice boards.
The changes have been put in place after the Parliamentary Inquiry into Companion Animal Breeding Practices held earlier this year found extensive issues with problem breeders and animal welfare violations.
The implementation of these new rules will allow potential buyers to search the New South Pet Registry to see the animal’s details including their breed, sex, and age as well as whether the animal is desexed, registered, and if the animal has an annual permit attached to its number.
Sellers who fail to include the number in their advertisements will be issued with a $330 on-the-spot fine with a maximum penalty of $5500 in court.
If you suspect that an advertisement does not include a valid identification number, you can contact the RSPCA, the Animal Welfare League, or the police.
The NSW Pet Registry can be found here.’
SEE ALSO: All of the important July 1 changes you need to know
Written by Kate Stevens
Images: Unsplash
