Obtaining a New York Dog License
Almost all dogs living with owners in New York state must have a license. Puppies under the age of four months that are not “at large” (in other words, that are not free to roam) are exempt from this rule until they reach the age of five months. It doesn’t matter if you’ve selected your new forever friend from a shelter, dein a breeder, or simply from another person—you’ll need to follow the law.
When you apply, you’ll provide the sex of your dog, its approximate age, breed, color, and municipal identification number along with your name, address, telephone number, and location of your home. You’ll also need to show proof that Baxter (or Fluffy or Petey or Toto) has been vaccinated against rabies.
You will pay a modest fee to obtain the license. The exact amount is determined by the locality in which you live. In some cases, the money helps fund shelters and pay for free and low-cost neuter and spay program for those who can’t afford it.
Of course, requirements vary from state to state. Should you and your pet move from the state of New York, you’ll have to check with your new locality to find out what you will need to do regarding licensing.
According to the ASPCA,…
Some states do not mandate wearing a rabies tag. Rabies is not present on the island state of Hawaii, but it does have strict rules for pets relocating there or just visiting. If your pooch accompanies you on your travels, it is best to have a rabies tag always attached to the collar.
Does my dog need a rabies shot every year?
In California, the law reads that any dog must receive 3 rabies vaccines in the first 5 years of life. That means 1 is given at 3-4 months of age, then at 1 year and 3-4 months of age and then 3 years later. After this, dogs are then required to be vaccinated every 3 years.