Wardens canvassing in 23 counties for dog licenses, vaccinations through June
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The Pennsyvlania Department of Agriculture has announced that state dog wardens will conduct dog license and rabies vaccination checks in 23 counties through June.
The program aims to raise awareness of the importance of up-to-date dog licenses, and rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats for the health and safety of communities statewide, according to Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.
“If your dog gets lost, a license is the best way to ensure that anyone who finds them knows where they live,” said Redding. “A rabies vaccination and a license are very small investments in protecting your pet, your family, your community and your peace of mind.”
Wardens began canvassing in Centre, Chester, Franklin, Huntingdon, Lackawanna, Mercer, Perry, Pike, Schuylkill and Westmoreland counties this month.
In May, wardens will canvass Allegheny, Carbon, Cumberland, Dauphin, Erie, Franklin, Luzerne, Montgomery, Northumberland, Perry, Wayne and York Counties.
Crawford County will be canvassed in June.
State law requires all dogs three months and older to be licensed by Jan. 1 of each year. The fee is $6.50 for each spayed or neutered dog and $8.50 for other dogs. Older adults and persons with disabilities may purchase a license for $4.50 for spayed or neutered dogs, and $6.50 for others. Dog licenses are available through local county treasurer offices.
All dogs and non-feral cats three months of age and older must also be vaccinated against rabies. Booster vaccinations must be administered periodically to maintain lifelong immunity.
Violators may be cited with a maximum fine of $300 per violation, plus court costs.
Dog wardens drive vehicles and wear uniforms labeled with “Pennsylvania Dog Law Enforcement Warden” in a keystone with a state seal. They wear a badge and state identification.
Wardens will request proof of licenses and proof of rabies vaccination. They will leave written notice for someone who is not home, or does not answer the door. Dog wardens will not enter a home or building without the owner’s permission.