Maine Dog License Overview and Application

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In Maine, dog owners are required to obtain a license for their furry friends. The license is a one-year permit that must be renewed annually.

To obtain a license, you'll need to provide proof of current rabies vaccination, which is a requirement for all dogs in Maine.

The cost of a dog license varies depending on the municipality, but it typically ranges from $6 to $15. Some municipalities may also offer a discount for senior citizens or service animals.

You can obtain a dog license from your local town or city clerk's office, usually in person or by mail. Some municipalities may also offer online applications.

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Licensing Fees and Support

Licensing fees in Maine support a range of essential services, including local Animal Control Officers and State Humane Agents.

These fees also help fund investigations into animal cruelty complaints and enforcement of animal welfare laws, ensuring the well-being of dogs and their owners.

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In addition to these efforts, licensing fees cover compliance with rabies vaccination requirements and care for sick and injured stray animals.

Here's a breakdown of the services supported by licensing fees:

  • Local Animal Control Officers and State Humane Agents
  • Investigation of animal cruelty complaints and enforcement of animal welfare laws
  • Compliance with rabies vaccination of dogs
  • Care for sick and injured stray animals
  • Return of lost dogs to their owners

Replacement dog tags can be obtained at no cost from Brewer City Hall.

Dog Licensing Fees Support

Dog licensing fees support various essential services that benefit both dogs and their owners. Your fees go directly towards funding local animal control officers and state humane agents.

These agents work tirelessly to investigate animal cruelty complaints and enforce animal welfare laws, keeping our communities safe and compassionate. You can be confident that your fees are being used to make a positive impact.

Compliance with rabies vaccination of dogs is also a crucial aspect of dog licensing fees. This helps prevent the spread of diseases and protects public health.

If your furry friend loses their tag, don't worry – replacement dog tags can be obtained at no cost from Brewer City Hall. This convenient service ensures that your dog is always properly identified.

Here's a breakdown of what your dog licensing fees support:

  • Local Animal Control Officers and State Humane Agents
  • Investigation of animal cruelty complaints and enforcement of animal welfare laws
  • Compliance with rabies vaccination of dogs
  • Care for sick and injured stray animals
  • Return of lost dogs to their owners

Animal Control Officer

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The Animal Control Officer plays a crucial role in our community.

Their contact information is listed as Jennifer Cross, and you can reach her through the Scarborough Police Department at (207) 730-4318 for general information and questions.

For complaints, such as a barking dog or an injured animal, call the dispatch number 883-6361.

The Animal Control Officer handles a variety of tasks, including dog licensing enforcement and taking stray dogs to the animal shelter.

They also follow up on citizen complaints about barking dogs, lost dogs, or animal abuse or neglect.

In addition, they respond to calls about injured animals due to accidents and oversee enforcement of the Town's Animal Control Ordinance.

Citizens can also get educated on rabies prevention through the Animal Control Officer.

Obtaining and Renewing Licenses

To obtain a dog license in Maine, you'll need a current rabies vaccination certification from a licensed veterinarian. This certification is required for the first time license.

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You can complete a Dog License Application and submit it in-person at the City Clerk's office at City Hall during business hours. Alternatively, you can use the online portal, available from October 15th through January 31st.

If you're applying for the first time, be sure to have the required licensing fee, which is $11 for an unaltered fertile dog and $6 for an altered or sterile dog.

Overview

In the State of Maine, the Department of Animal Welfare is in charge of overseeing dog licensing.

You'll need to license your dog by December 31st each year, or face a $25 late fee if you do it between February 1st and January 31st.

The license fee is $6 for a neutered/spayed dog and $11 for an unaltered dog.

You can license your dog in person at the Clerk's office or online between October 15 and January 31 without incurring a late fee.

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Dog licenses expire annually on December 31st.

You'll need to have your dog's current rabies vaccination certificate ready at the time of licensing.

All dogs need to be licensed upon reaching the age of 6 months in the town where it resides or after the dog has been with the family for 10 days, if adopted.

First Time Licenses

If you're licensing your dog for the first time, you'll need to have a current rabies vaccination certification issued by a licensed veterinarian.

To get your dog licensed, you'll need some basic information about your dog, including their name, breed, sex, and color.

You'll also need a written statement from your veterinarian confirming that your dog is altered and/or sterile to qualify for the low-cost altered license fee.

The licensing fee itself will depend on whether your dog is altered or not: it's $11 for an unaltered fertile dog and $6 for an altered or sterile dog.

How to Obtain

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You can obtain a license by visiting the City Clerk's office at City Hall during business hours. They'll need a copy of your current State of Maine rabies certificate and the required fee.

To do this in-person, simply head to the City Clerk's office at City Hall.

You can also obtain a license online through the Dog Licensing Online Purchasing & Renewal Service, which is available from October 15th through January 31st.

Renewing

Renewing your dog's license is a relatively straightforward process.

The City Clerk's Department starts accepting renewal applications in November of each year.

All dog licenses expire on December 31 of each year, so make sure to renew on time to avoid any issues.

If your dog has been spayed or neutered, bring a written certificate from a veterinarian as proof.

You only need to provide this proof once, so if you've already done so, you're good to go.

If you miss the deadline and renew after January 31, be prepared for a $25 late fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a leash law in Maine for dogs?

In Maine, dogs must be under the control of their owner or on their owner's premises, except when used for hunting. Leashes are not explicitly required, but dogs must be kept from roaming freely.

Does Maine have dog breed restrictions?

Maine does not have breed-specific laws, but dogs can be declared dangerous or nuisance through a court process.

Kellie Hagenes

Junior Copy Editor

Kellie Hagenes is a detail-driven Copy Editor with a passion for refining written content. With a keen eye for grammar, syntax, and style, she ensures that every article meets the highest standards of clarity and coherence. Her portfolio showcases a diverse range of topics, including the fascinating realm of "Canine Strength and Ability," where she helped shape engaging stories that captivated readers of all ages.

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