Release Date: Apr 3, 2007
File:

Summary:
Montgomery County Animal Resource Center Enforcing Dog Licensing

Montgomery County Animal Resource Center will begin canvassing neighborhoods in an effort to enforce the dog license law in Montgomery County.  All dogs in Ohio must be licensed through county offices.   Dog licenses in Montgomery County can be purchased through the auditor's office, the Animal Resource Center or many available outposts including pet supply stores and local veterinarians.  Dog licenses cost $16 annually and each dog over the age of three months must be licensed. 

If an officer finds an unlicensed dog, then the owner may be cited and will be required to purchase a license.  To date approximately half of the 120,000 dogs residing in Montgomery County are licensed. Licenses purchased after the January 31st deadline are subject to a $16 late penalty in addition to the regular license fee  

The benefits to licensing include the fact that a licensed animal can be traced 24 hours a day, 365 a year.  The license distinguishes a lost dog from a stray dog.  Strangers are more apt to extend themselves to licensed pet.  It also provides legal proof of ownership and licensed dogs are eligible for the vacation registration program   Licensed dogs are returned to owners by the Animal Care & Control Officers if lost.  Most importantly, revenue from licensing is the Animal Shelter's major source of funding and allows the shelter to house stray and unwanted animals while preparing them for adoption.