How To License Your Dog

As the new owner of a dog, it is important to license the animal in the municipality where you live.  The first thing you must do is find out the rules for dog ownership in your area.  Licensing requirements will probably be known by the person or organization who released the dog to you, but if you took the animal in as a stray you can contact your local taxing office to get the proper forms and find out the regulations in your area.

The majority of local governments require all dogs to have a rabies vaccination. If your dog has not had this vaccine, or if you do not know whether the dog has been vaccinated, it is important to get your new pet immunized as soon as possible.  The cost of a rabies shot is minimal, and often local veterinarians will take part in free rabies clinics.  A dog who has been vaccinated against rabies will get a tag and a certificate from the veterinarian who administered the shot. Once you have the rabies vaccination information, you are ready to fill out your forms for getting the dog license.

The form is typically an easy one to fill out: required information includes your home address, mailing address if that is different from your physical address, telephone number, the age and sex of the dog, whether the dog has been spayed or neutered, the date of the rabies vaccination and the vaccination tag number.  

After you have filled out your licensing form, you will need to return it to the local government office that keeps this information on file. Often this is a commissioner of revenue or town hall, since it is usually the same office that handles your local tax information.  Most places do require a licensing fee, which could vary according to the size and sex of the dog. Dogs that have been spayed or neutered may have a smaller fee.

After you have submitted your licensing information and paid any fees, you may be given a license tag for your dog. Dog licenses are usually renewed yearly. Your information is kept on file and the annual fee is included with your annual taxes for personal property or vehicle.

Although it might seem like a hassle, annual licensing of your pet is important because it ensures the safety of your dog.