Georgia § 4-11-5 - 2. Microchip reader defined; contacting owner of microchipped pet.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 4-11-5 — 2. Microchip reader defined; contacting owner of microchipped pet., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4-11-5. 2. Microchip reader defined; contacting owner of microchipped pet.
As used in this Code section, the term "microchip reader" means a device designed to read microchips at 125 kHz, both encrypted and nonencrypted, 128 kHz, and 134.2 kHz, and which is ISO 11784 and 11785 compliant. When any dog, cat, or other large animal traditionally kept as a household pet is brought to an animal shelter or other facility operated for the collection and care of stray, neglected, or abandoned animals, the operator of the facility shall, if the owner of the animal is not known, within 24 hours or as soon as possible scan for the presence of an identifying microchip through the use of a microchip reader. If a microchip is found, the operator shall make a reasonable effort to contact the owner of the animal. Prior to euthanizing a dog, cat, or other large animal traditionally kept as a household pet, any facility referred to in this subsection shall again scan for the presence of an identifying microchip through the use of a microchip reader. Shelters and facilities and their employees and the Department of Agriculture shall not be liable for failing to detect a microchip or failing to contact the owner of the animal. Shelter personnel shall not be required to scan any animal they deem to be too vicious or dangerous to permit safe handling. (Code 1981, § 4-11-5.2 , enacted by Ga. L. 2010, p. 806, § 1/HB 1106.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 4-11-5
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 4-11-5 cover?
Section 4-11-5 ("2. Microchip reader defined; contacting owner of microchipped pet.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Georgia § 4-11-5?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 4-11-5" (Georgia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 4-11-5 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.