MASON, Mich. — In the state of Michigan the law states that every owned dog must have a dog license to the county they reside in.
In Ingham County it’s a misdemeanor offense- It’s taken seriously because it’s important. Ingham County dogs MUST have a current dog tag affixed to their collar at all time. A dog license could be the difference between your dog being lost permanently or brought home by an animal control officer if it was to get out.
To purchase a dog license, the dog must have a current rabies vaccination. Rabies is a fatal virus, and to have the vaccine is the only way to keep your pets safe from accidently contracting it. Dog license costs vary from county to county, but in Ingham County the cost of a one year license is $15 if the dog has already been spayed/ neutered and $45 if they have not been altered. Three year licenses are available if there are three years remaining on the dogs’ rabies vaccination.
Between now and April, Ingham County Treasurer Eric Schertzing and Animal Control Director Jodi Lebombard will be going out into Ingham County neighborhoods to educate pet owners about the importance of dog licensing. They will be traveling with Animal Control Officers and will be selling dog licenses, providing information on how to get a dog license, or potentially serving citations for those found delinquent on dog licensing.
Ingham County Animal Control hosts monthly vaccination and licensing clinics to provide low cost and free vaccinations to Ingham County pet owners and to provide an opportunity to purchase a dog license at the time of that vaccination. Cats are not required to be licensed, however a current rabies vaccination is strongly recommended for your pet’s safety. If you receive a delinquent dog licensing citation, cost for the license doubles, and you may be responsible for the cost of the ticket. Dog licenses may be purchased at the Ingham County Treasurers offices in the Veterans Memorial Courthouse in Lansing, the Treasures Office in the Mason Courthouse, Ingham County Animal Shelter, and some participating local veterinarians.
For more information on discounted vaccinations or other programs at Ingham County Animal Control, contact the shelter at 517-676-8370, visit the ICAC website at www.ac.ingham.org,
or visit the shelter at 600 Curtis St. in Mason. Ingham County Animal Control is open M,T,Th,F,Sa 10:30-5pm and W 10:30-6pm. The shelter is closed on county observed holidays.
