DOG owners will be forced to update their details on a yearly basis as part of the implementation of a new digital dog database.

The ACT government is introducing a bill to “strengthen responsible dog ownership” in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday (March 31).

No additional costs will be involved in the changeover to the digital registration process, but Domestic Animal Services will issue an $150 infringement notice for unregistered owners who fail to comply with the new changes.

The new bill that has bipartisan support places the onus on the ACT government to remind dog owners about annual registration requirements.

Dog owners already on the ACT records will be contacted to renew their registration amid a grace period during July and August to avoid being fined.

The existing $57 fee to register the pet still applies.

The digital database that will replace the previous lifetime registration system will provide up-to-date information on where dogs live and their owner’s phone numbers and also who owns the dogs.

The government said the changes to registration will help reunite lost dogs with their family quicker and easier, and better target education and compliance activity of dangerous dogs.

“The new system will address the challenges we currently face with lifetime registration, as owners rarely tell government when they change address or phone number, transfer their dog’s ownership to someone else, or their pet passes away,” Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel said.

“This can be a particular problem when dog attacks, unfortunately, happen, or there is concern about dangerous dogs.

“It’s important we continue to promote responsible dog ownership and the new digital dog database will provide a platform to educate and regularly communicate with every dog owner on their responsibilities and how to keep their dogs safe and happy.”

The legislation that comes into effect on July 1 requires Domestic Animal Services to send dog owners annual registration reminder notices in the form of an email, text or letter at least 14 days prior to their dog’s renewal date.

The notice will contain details on how to update information in the new digital dog database based on the date the pets were originally registered in the ACT.