Ask any dog owner, and they’ll tell you that getting a pupster was the best decision they ever made. Four legged family members bring so much joy into the lives of their people. In return for the tail wagging greetings, sloppy kisses, and undying loyalty, pet parents provide their fur babies with the best life pawssible. That means pawsome toys, daily walks, nutritious food, and a warm bed. It also means making sure they are licensed and registered. This is often overlooked but it’s so impawtant for your pup’s safety. Read on to learn how to register your furry friend in the city of Los Angeles.
There are a couple of furrific reasons to make sure your furry friend is registered. First of all, it’s the law. Dogs over the age of four months living in Los Angeles are required to be registered with the city. License tags must be attached to your pup’s collar or harness and be worn whenever they leave your property. Since your pal likes to go for walks around the neighborhood and to the park, they'll be most grateful if they have their proper tags. Another reason to register your four legged buddy is that if they ever get loose, they can easily be identified by their tag. Whoever finds them can call Los Angeles Animal Services, who will connect them with you for a joyful reunion. Or, if they are taken to the shelter, their license tag will let the worker know to call you. Either way, their license helps them get back safely into your arms.
You can apply for a new license, or renew an existing one, either online or in person at the Department of Animal Services. No matter how you choose to apply, you will need a current rabies vaccination certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. Also, a Surgical Sterilization certificate is required. Per Los Angeles law, all dogs and cats older than four months must be spayed or neutered. Of course, there are some exceptions like dogs training for law enforcement, guide dogs, or doggos with health issues. If your pal isn’t spayed or neutered, check with the Department of Animal Services to make sure they are exempt from the law. Please note that vaccination and sterilization certificates will not be returned, so only send in copies. Once you have your paperwork in order, just fill out the application and pay the appropriate fee. When your pal receives their tags, fasten them to their collar and they are good to go!
In order to complete the registration process, you need to pay the appropriate fee. For spayed and neutered pupsters, a one year license costs $20.00. To avoid having to go through the process each year, you can also purchase a three year license for $55.00. If your pooch is unaltered, you must check with the Department of Animal Services to receive their license. Los Angeles does offer a discount to seniors, low income individuals, and low income disabled people. If you meet any of these criteria, be sure to use the ‘Discount Dog License Application’ form. Please note that you will need to provide additional documentation, and only one discounted license is available per household. If your pup’s tag is lost, you can obtain a replacement for only $5.00. For more infurmation about this process, check out the Los Angeles Animal Services website.
