Dog Licensing
| 2650 W. Washington Blvd. Crescent City, CA 95531 | Phone: (707) 464-7235 Fax: (707) 465-6044 |
Dog Licensing
State law mandates that dogs receive a rabies vaccination and County ordinance requires that they are licensed. This must be done by the time the dog is 6 months of age or within 30 days of acquisition. Dog license fees help pay for the care of lost and orphaned pets; for animal cruelty investigations and other community services that promote animal health and safety.
Licensing in Del Norte County can be done at our office located at 2650 Washington Blvd in Crescent City, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Please bring a copy of your current rabies vaccination record as well altering information if your dog has been fixed. See our Fee Schedule for current costs.
Discounted Rates
Seniors (ages 60 and over) are currently entitled to one free dog license per household, per year. They must, however, relicense each year or late fees will apply.
Low income licensing is available. To qualify you must only have one dog and, like all other licenses, the dog must have a current rabies vaccination. You must be receiving one of the following forms of assistance: SSI/SSP, CalWORKs/TANF, SNAP food benefits or general relief, or have an income that falls at or below the federal poverty limits. Please fill out the affidavit provided at the bottom of the page and provide it to our office when licensing.
Tribal members living on tribal lands qualify for a fee exempt dog license. Please bring proof of membership and residency to our office when licensing or renewing.
Discount licensing fees apply to altered dogs. If you need assistance with altering your animal, please leave a message with the Humane Society of Del Norte at (707) 464-1686 to obtain information on low cost spay/neuter options.
Benefits of Licensing
Licensing doesn’t just bring you into compliance with the law but it provides you with a way to prove ownership of your dog. Having your unlicensed dog picked up by an animal control agency can cost upwards $400 depending on the jurisdiction. In Del Norte County it can cost up to $150 on the first day of impoundment.
A licensed dog wearing its license tag with a current rabies shot can be redeemed at no charge so long as it is picked up from the shelter within 24 hours. Many people think their dog will never get impounded but dogs end up here for a variety of reasons including medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, break-ins that allow your dog to escape or be stolen, or negligent pet sitters.
Resources
