Dog licensing 101: what does the law require in the City and County of Fresno?

You must get a license for your dog from the City of Fresno if you live within the city limits. If you live in a county area—including county islands within the city—you must get a license from Fresno County. You must have proof of your dog’s current rabies vaccination in order to obtain a license from either the city or the county. There are some time restrictions for licensing without a late fee, also. 

Photo: American Mutti-grees Club

 
 A low-cost rabies clinic is available throughout Fresno County for a period of time each year, usually in late spring. Check the County’s website for the schedule. Low-cost vaccinations are also available year-round at a number of local veterinary clinics. There are different shots for puppies and adult dogs. A rabies shot given to a four-month-old puppy is good for one year. Whereas, the vaccination given to an adult dog is valid for three years.
 
In the City of Fresno, you must license your dog within 30 days after you acquire a dog that is four months old, or your dog turns four months old, or you move into the City of Fresno. After 30 days, you must pay a late fee of $10. If your dog’s license tag is lost, it can be replaced for 50?.
 
It should be noted that you may own up to four adult dogs (or cats) within the city limits. While most people are good about updating information over the lifetime of their pet, you also need to remember to notify the City if your dog dies or is no longer in your possession. Another important note: dog licenses are not transferable. Click here for more information about City of Fresno dog licensing.
 
Both the City and County of Fresno charge $39/year to license a dog that has not been spayed or neutered. If you present a spay/neuter certificate for your dog, the fee is only $4/year. Dog license application forms are on-line and in clinics where vaccinations are given. County regulations for licensing and owning dogs are in sync with City regulations and are on-line at http://www.co.fresno.ca.us/DivisionPage.aspx?id=1574. This site also covers what to do if someone is bitten by a dog.  
 
We should remember that licensing is not just a way for local government to rake in more money. Having your dog’s description, and your address and phone number can help to recover your pet if he or she is ever lost.
 
 
City of Fresno dog license info:

 

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, Greater Fresno Examiner

A San Joaquin Valley native and long-time Fresno resident, JoAnn enjoys sharing about local people, places, and events. Her background in farm labor, journalism, public housing, and education give her a unique perspective of the dynamics of the Fresno area. Comments and article suggestions are...

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