Time for Your Dog’s 2013 Dog License?

PUPPIES-ZYSK

Tracey Zysk – February 2013

If you haven’t already received a bill from your town for your dog’s 2013 dog license, you will be receiving it soon. People ask me all the time, “Why do I even need to do this?” or “Why is the town making money off of my dog?”

This isn’t about a town collecting revenue off of your family pet. It is about protecting the community.

WHY DO DOGS HAVE TO BE LICENSED? Massachusetts law requires that all dogs over the age of four months be licensed as a rabies control measure. The dog license also lets the town know if your pet is currently vaccinated against rabies. Rabies? With the amount of wildlife moving inward to our communities this is another protective measure to ensure the safety and health of your dog. (Just last week there was a case in Southern Mass of a man infected with rabies and becoming very ill.) Also, making sure your dog has its current license attached to its collar will help greatly to having your dog returned to you in case he becomes lost, or gets out of your yard.

MY DOG NEVER LEAVES MY PROPERTY WHY DO I HAVE TO BUY A LICENSE?

Massachusetts law requires that every dog four months of age or older must

Have a current license attached to its collar. Even dogs that “never leave the house” or are “indoor only dogs” must be licensed. Dogs have a way of getting out through accidentally opened gates, sneaking out the door or human error where people forget to turn on those electric fences.

Although natural disasters are not the norm it our area, if we do have a hurricane, earthquake, major snowstorm or flood, your dog may flee for his safety and leave your property. Having a dog license on his collar will help reunite your lost pooch to you.

WHERE DO I GO TO PURCHASE MY LICENSE?

The Town of North Andover sells licenses Monday thru Friday 8:30 to 4:30 at the Town Hall. Other towns and cities please check on your town websites for times and locations. Your dog must be up to date on his rabies shots before obtaining a license. Please bring this paperwork with you when you apply for your dog license. If this is a renewal, your Vet has probably already sent your updated information to your town and all you will need to do is mail in your check to receive your new license.

DOG LICENSE FEES: North Andover is $20.00 please refer to your town website for your local fees.

 DUE DATE: North Andover was due February 1, 2013 but the town will still accept your submittal. For all other towns please refer to your town website

OTHER QUESTIONS? If you have other questions about licensing, please contact North Andover Town Hall 978-688-9500 or your town offices and they would be more than happy to answer your questions.

Tracey Zysk, owner of Wiggles & Jiggles Pet Care in North Andover MA is a local pet care professional. She has been featured on local radio, tv and newspapers educating the general public on animal care and animal health & wellness. Tracey is a proud supporter of Police, Fire & Military K9 units. Tracey may be reached at wigglewalk@comcast.net. Become a fan on facebook at Wiggles & Jiggles Pet Care.