As a pet owner, you experience the joy and companionship that your furry friend brings into your life. However, along with this joy comes the responsibility of ensuring your pet is properly licensed, as required by city ordinances. While it may not be specifically noted in your lease, it is important to remember that you are still required to comply with all city and town ordinances, while renting.
What is a Pet License, and Why is It Important?
A pet license is essentially an official identification for your pet, similar to a driver's license for people. It typically includes key information such as your pet’s name, breed, age, and your contact details. More importantly, a pet license signifies that your pet is registered with the city and is up-to-date with any necessary vaccinations, such as rabies.
Having a pet license isn't just about following the law—though that's certainly important—it's also about safeguarding your pet. If your pet were to get lost, having a license makes it much easier for local animal control or a Good Samaritan to reunite you with your pet quickly. Additionally, in many places, the fines for having an unlicensed pet can be quite steep, so keeping your pet licensed can save you money in the long run.
How Do You Get a Pet License?
The process for obtaining a pet license is usually straightforward. Here’s a quick guide:
Check Local Requirements: Visit your city’s official website to understand the specific requirements for pet licensing in your area. Some cities may have specific rules depending on the type or number of pets you have.
Vaccination Records: Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are current, particularly the rabies vaccine, as this is often a prerequisite for obtaining a license.
Apply for the License: Most cities offer online applications for pet licenses. You’ll typically need to provide your pet’s vaccination records and pay a small fee.
Display the Tag: Once you receive your pet's license tag, make sure it’s securely attached to their collar. This tag is a visible sign that your pet is licensed and registered.
The Consequences of Not Licensing Your Pet
Failure to license your pet can lead to a range of consequences. These can include fines, the impounding of your pet, or even difficulty reclaiming your pet if it gets lost. Moreover, being a responsible pet owner means following local laws designed to keep both pets and the community safe.
A Friendly Reminder
As part of our commitment to maintaining a pet-friendly and responsible community, we want to remind all our tenants to ensure their pets are properly licensed. Not only does this comply with city ordinances, but it also protects your beloved pet.
If you haven’t already, take a moment this August to check that your pet’s license is up to date. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
*NOTE: Please note that each county/city may have additional Animal/Pet Ordinances. Please visit the following links to verify you are in compliance with the area you will be providing shelter for your pets/animals.
Pamela Greene
Master Property Manager
PG Management Group, LLC
