If you live in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, you'll need to license your dog. In the county, all dogs three months or older must be licensed by January 31st of each year.
To license your dog, you'll need to provide proof of current rabies vaccination. This is a requirement for all dog licenses in Cuyahoga County.
The cost of a dog license in Cuyahoga County varies depending on the age of your dog. The fee is $14 for a spayed or neutered dog, $22 for an intact dog, and $11 for a service animal.
Additional reading: Do Dog Groomers Need a License
Dog Licenses in Cuyahoga County
Cuyahoga County collects dog license fees as of December 1, 2013, according to O.R.C. Chapter 955, et seq. and other applicable laws.
The fees for dog licenses in Cuyahoga County are as follows:
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine receives a portion of the license fees: 10 cents for each 1 Year Dog License, 30 cents for each 3 Year Dog License, and $1.00 for each Permanent Dog License.
If you're adopting a dog from the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter, you'll need to pay a dog license fee, unless the Director of Public Works waives it.
Avoid Scams
If you're planning to renew your dog's license online, be cautious of scams. At least one website, ohdog-license.com, is marketing bogus "Ohio" dog licenses and fraudulently gathering personal information about dog owners and their pets.
Under no circumstance does applying for or renewing a dog license in Cuyahoga County require residents to share their own date of birth or their pet's health records. This is a serious red flag, and you should avoid any website that asks for this information.
The Cuyahoga Department of Consumer Affairs warns dog owners to be vigilant and only use the official online payment page for renewing licenses. The county's website has a certified encryption standard, so you can feel safe entering your financial information.
A convenience fee of $1 will be charged when renewing online, and financial information is not retained.
If this caught your attention, see: Dog License Renewal Online
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dog licenses required in Ohio?
Yes, dog licenses are required in Ohio, as mandated by Ohio Revised Statutes since 1877. Ohio offers various license options, including multi-year and permanent licenses, since 2013.
What is the fine for not having a dog license in Ohio?
In Ohio, failing to register a dog results in a fine of $25-$75 for the first offense. This unclassified misdemeanor penalty applies to dog owners, keepers, and harborers.
How many dogs can you own in Cuyahoga County?
In Cuyahoga County, you can own up to two dogs per dwelling, or one dog and one cat. Check local regulations for more information on pet ownership requirements.
How much is a Cuyahoga County dog license?
A Cuyahoga County dog license costs $20 for a 1-year term or $60 for a 3-year term.
Sources
- https://animalshelter.cuyahogacounty.gov/services/dog-licensing
- https://cuyahogacounty.gov/code/titles/title-7-revenue-and-finance/chapter-713-dog-license-and-animal-shelter-fees
- https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/12/get-your-dog-a-license-at-a-discount-but-dont-be-scammed.html
- https://cuyahogacounty.gov/executive/news/press-releases-archive/2024-press-releases/2024/01/16/a-tail-wagging-deadline!-secure-your-dog-license-now
- https://signalcleveland.org/dog-owners-can-get-discounted-dog-licenses-until-jan-31/
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