In a recent open letter to the community, just in time for the dog days of summer, Brenda Barnett, General Manager of the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services, reminded us that “Your dog can’t drive, but he still needs a license!” Too often these days, we see posters, e-mails and social media posts (even here on the Buzz) about lost and found pets. And all too often those missives contain the message, “he has a collar, but no tags or chip”…which greatly decreases the chance that the animal will find its way home.
Ms. Barnett’s letter goes on to say, “A dog license may be your dog’s only life saver if he darts out of the door or finds a gap in your fence. A roaming dog wearing a Los Angeles City dog tag has the best chance of being reunited with his family. The number on the license identifies the owner and we can let you know that “Fido” is a temporary guest in one of our six Los Angeles City Shelters. Reuniting families is an important part of our work.”
License fees are $20/year in Los Angeles for dogs that are spayed or neutered (also required by law), with a discount for multi-year renewals, and discounts for low-income seniors. To make it even easier, you can apply online at https://anionlinelicense.lacity.org/newregistration/
So, be your dog’s best friend – make sure your pet has a current license and the tag is attached to his collar…even if he doesn’t normally leave the house or yard. Please don’t let the next missing pet notice be yours!
I paid for two City licenses 6 months ago and never received anything from the City.