Microchipping & Desexing
Microchipping & desexing requirements
Desexing
Desexing of dogs and cats is mandatory in South Australia.
All dogs and cats born after 1 July 2018 must be desexed by a registered veterinary surgeon:
- before it is 6 months of age; or
- within 28 days after the owner takes possession of the dog/cat; or
- if the owner is granted an extension of time, before the day specified in the exemption.
For more information, please visit dogandcatboard.com.au/dogs/desexing
The District Council of Loxton Waikerie offers eligible residents a subsidy to help cover the cost of desexing their dog.
You can apply if:
- You and your dog/s reside within the District Council of Loxton Waikerie area and are recorded on the Dogs and Cats Online (DACO) database
- You hold a valid concession card
The subsidy is valid for two (2) animals per household, and dogs must be vaccinated and have a current vaccination certificate (the cost of vaccinations is not covered by this subsidy scheme).
An approval letter from DCLW is required prior to booking your appointment with the Riverland Veterinary Clinic.
For further information, and to read the full eligibility requirements, please complete the 2026/27 dog desexing subsidy guide & application form and return to Council for processing.
Microchipping
All dogs and cats must be microchipped with the microchip number recorded in Dogs and Cats Online.
In South Australia, all dogs and cats must be microchipped and registered in Dogs and Cats Online. Puppies and kittens must be microchipped:
- Before it is sold, or;
- Before it reaches 12 weeks of age, or;
- Within 28 days of an owner taking possession of the dog or cat, or;
- If a veterinarian has granted an extension of time, before the extension of time has expired.
For more information, please visit dogandcatboard.com.au/dogs/microchipping
Council also offers a $10.00 microchipping subsidy program for both dogs and cats.
The same eligibility requirements apply as for the desexing subsidy above.
Please complete the 2026/27 dog & cat microchipping subsidy guide & application form and return to Council for processing.