What is the Purpose of a Dog License and Why You Need One

A dog license is a must-have for any dog owner, but have you ever wondered why it's so important? In most places, a dog license is required by law, and it's not just a suggestion.

To start with the basics, a dog license is a permit that allows you to keep a dog in your home. It's usually issued by the local animal control or licensing authority.

The main purpose of a dog license is to ensure that your dog is up-to-date on its vaccinations and identification. This helps prevent the spread of diseases and makes it easier to reunite your dog with you if it ever gets lost.

In Ohio, it's the law that all dogs be licensed, and a penalty will be assessed if you don't secure a license on or before January 31st. This law applies regardless of whether your dog is kept inside or out.

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A dog license tag is more than just a piece of paper - it's a vital tool for reuniting you with your furry friend if they ever get lost.

You'll need to ensure your dog has a current rabies vaccination and may need to pass a dog obedience test to get a license in some jurisdictions.

Here are some key facts to keep in mind:

The cost of a dog license in Montgomery County is relatively straightforward. A single year license costs $20 for a spayed or neutered dog and $24 for an unaltered dog.

If you're planning to license your dog for three years, the cost is significantly lower: $60 for a spayed or neutered dog and $72 for an unaltered dog.

There are some special considerations to keep in mind, however. If your dog is becoming 3 months of age after July 1st or being brought or purchased from outside the state after July 1st, you'll pay a one-time fee of $50 for a spayed or neutered dog or $60 for an unaltered dog.

If you're thinking of getting a dog license in Montgomery County, here are the pricing details you need to know.

The cost of a single year dog license varies depending on whether your dog is spayed or neutered. For a spayed or neutered dog, the cost is $20, while for an unaltered dog, it's $24.

If you opt for a three year license, the cost is significantly lower. For a spayed or neutered dog, the cost is $60, and for an unaltered dog, it's $72.

If your dog is becoming 3 months of age after July 1st or being brought or purchased from outside the state after July 1st, the cost of a 3 year license is $50 for a spayed or neutered dog or $60 for an unaltered dog.

If you're planning to bring a furry friend into your family, you'll want to know about the dog fee exclusions in our community. There are some exceptions to the unaltered dog fee, and it's worth knowing about them.

Dogs nine months old or less are exempt from the fee, no matter what. This is a great perk for new pet parents.

If your dog is advanced in years or has a medical condition that prevents spaying or neutering, you'll need a veterinarian's certification to qualify for the exemption. This is a common and reasonable request, especially if your dog is already dealing with health issues.

Used or intended for breeding or show, you'll need an AKC breed registry number to qualify for the exemption. This is a straightforward process for responsible breeders and owners.

Similarly, if you're planning to use your dog for hunting, you'll need to provide your 2023-2024 hunting license number to qualify for the exemption. This is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts who love to hunt with their dogs.

Here are the dog fee exclusions in a nutshell:

To get started with licensing your dog, you'll need to gather some essential documents. This includes a copy of your dog's current rabies certificate and proof of spaying or neutering. You'll also need to provide your dog's license number if you're renewing a license.

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If you're renewing a license, you can do so by mail or in person. To mail in your application, you'll need to pay a fee using a check or money order made payable to Boston Animal Care and Control. You can also pay any outstanding fines at the same time.

In some cases, the license fee may be waived. For example, if you're 70 or older, you won't need to pay the license fee.

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To get started with licensing your dog, you'll need to gather some essential documents. You'll need a copy of your dog's current rabies certificate and proof of spaying or neutering. If you're renewing a license, you'll also need to provide your dog's license number.

You can choose to license your dog by mail or in person, depending on your preference. Both options require the same documents, so it's up to you to decide which method works best for you.

If you're licensing a new dog, you'll need to complete a dog license application form. This form can usually be printed out and completed by hand, or sometimes it can be completed online. Be sure to fill out the form accurately and sign it.

You'll also need to pay a fee with your application. This fee varies depending on your location, but in some places, it's $15 for a neutered male or spayed female, or $30 for an intact male or female. There may also be a service fee for online payments.

Here are the payment options for licensing your dog:

Don't forget to check if you're eligible for a fee waiver. Some jurisdictions offer a fee waiver for residents 70 and older, but you'll need to apply by mail or in person to take advantage of this.

To get started with kennel licenses, you'll need to visit the Auditor's Office at the County Administration Building, located at 451 W Third Street.

You'll also need to have or purchase a Vendor's License if you plan to sell breeding stock, or a current hunting license.

A kennel license costs $100 for 2024, which includes five tags.

Each additional kennel tag costs $1.

Make sure to factor in the cost of any additional tags you might need.