My Friendly Pets

Sometimes we look at rules and regulations as a hindrance rather than a help. We perceive it to be more of a violation of our civil rights rather than something that helps to preserve those rights.

In areas where there is concentrated population and even in most rural areas, dog owners are required to have their dogs licensed. Years ago, no one licensed their dogs, but health and safety concerns often yield regulations that help to avert problems that have occurred in the past. So is the case with licensing regulations.

I can’t speak nationally, as I am not familiar with the licensing requirements in states around the country. However, I am familiar with the regulations regarding dog licensing in New York State, as that where I reside. New York is a state highly run by rules and regulations, so if you are not familiar with the dog licensing requirements of your town, municipality or state, check on it, as financial penalities can be stiff for violations.

Why are there licensing requirements? They are in place for the safety and well being of the dog as well as the rest of the public. When dogs are licensed, animal control personnel can evaluate pet populations in the area. It is also easier to maintain control over vaccinations as dog licensing requires proof of shots and also spaying or neutering certificates for identification puposes and population control. The more dogs that can get licensed, the better for control over diseases such as distemper and rabies.

In New York State, your dog has to be licensed if it is to be within New York state for more than 30 days. There are some exceptions and they can be viewed at the website, by checking here.

The fees for licensing your dog in New York State are not expensive and according to the web page sited above, the fees are put to very good use. 53% of the monies are retained by the local municipality to help with dog control. 30% is sent to the county to reimburse local livestock owners against damages caused by dogs and 17% is used for the admistrative costs of the state agency that runs the licensing program.

So if you haven’t had your dog licensed, get it done. It’s to the benefit of yourself, your dog and those who live around you to take care of this for your dog. He/she can’t do it for themselves. Be a good dog owner and a good citizen!!!

Hey, don’t do what you’re supposed to do and worry about it?? See what can happen from this fellow blogger, Brick Oneil!!