Pennsylvanians Reminded of the Responsibility to License Their Dogs

License Fees Help Protect Dogs and Support Animal Shelters Statewide

WILKES-BARRE, Pa., April 25, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Agriculture Secretary George Greig today reminded Pennsylvanians to license their dogs, saying a dog license is the best way to protect lost dogs.

"Dog ownership comes with a lot of responsibilities and licensing your dog is on the top of the list," said Greig. "Buying a dog license is easy and affordable. Dog owners can purchase a license at their local county treasurer's office, through agents and online."

An annual dog license is $8.45 or $6.45 if the animal is spayed or neutered. Lifetime licenses are available for dogs that have permanent identification like a microchip or tattoo. Older adults and people with disabilities may be eligible for discounts.

The dog license application is simple and only requests owner contact information and details about the dog being licensed, including name, age, breed and color.

"Most Pennsylvania dogs are not licensed and each day we care for lost dogs that may never make it home because of this," said Peggy Nork, Luzerne County SPCA development director. "Your best friend's best chance at a happy homecoming is a dog license."

Greig offered these reasons for dog licensing:

• It's the law. All dogs three months and older must have a current license.
• If your dog is lost, a license is the best way to get him back. A license helps animal control and shelters identify your dog and get him home safely.
• The cost of a license is less than the penalty for being caught without one. Owners who fail to license their dogs could face a fine of up to $300 for each unlicensed dog.
• License fees support animal control. Purchasing a dog license helps keep shelters running and supports the work of the Dog Law Enforcement Office. The office ensures the welfare of dogs, regulates dangerous dogs and oversees annual licensing and rabies vaccinations. State dog wardens completed 4,711 kennel inspections last year and issued 3,113 summary citations and 56 misdemeanor charges related to violations of the Pennsylvania Dog Law.

For more information, visit www.licenseyourdogPA.com or call the Dog Law Enforcement Office at 717-787-3062.

Media contact: Samantha Elliott Krepps, 717-787-5085

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

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