Why You Should License Your Dog
Licensing your dog is an important way to show you care for your pet. Dogs which are licensed are guaranteed to be free of rabies. Additionally, your dog's license number allows you to be identified and notified if your dog should stray and be picked up by Animal Control Officers. Licensed dogs are held longer in the Animal Shelter if they are picked up stray.
By licensing your dog on time, you pay the lowest possible licensing fees, and avoid potential fines for failing to license your dog. Finally, you should license your dog because it is the law. A license tag on your dog will:
- Help get it home safely if lost.
- Reduce the chance of theft.
- Show that your dog is vaccinated against rabies
NOTICE: Effective December 1, 2022
Michigan Law requires all dogs 4 months and older to be licensed. Also, all newly acquired dogs must be licensed within 30 days. You must be a resident of Berrien County to purchase a dog license in Berrien County.
In 2023 licensing will change from a calendar year renewal to a renewal date based on your pet’s rabies vaccination date. All 2022 one year licenses will be given amnesty until the rabies vaccination date of the dog in 2023. In the case of three year licenses, they will come due at the same time that the 3 year rabies vaccination will be due.
For example, if a dog received a 1-year vaccination in May of 2022, the current 1-year 2022 dog license will not expire until May 31, 2023. If the dog has a current 3-year license that was issued for 2021 or 2022 the license will be due when the corresponding vaccination is due. If a dog receives a 3-year rabies vaccine and the dog owner chooses to purchase a 1-year dog license, the license will be due each year on the anniversary of the vaccine.
The dog license will be deemed delinquent and subject to $20.00 delinquent fee 30 days after vaccination/anniversary date.
Dog owner’s needing to renew their dog’s license will receive a pre-printed application by mail thirty days before the next rabies vaccination month. Pre-printed applications are NOT required to purchase a license. Failure to receive the renewal notice does not waive the delinquent fee.
In order to qualify for a fee-free service dog license, your dog must perform specific work or tasks for you according to the Americans with Disabilities Act, 42, USC 12101 et seq. Therapy dogs or emotional support dogs do not qualify as a service dog. Service dogs can only be licensed for 1 year at a time without a fee. If you are denied your request, you will be required to pay the regular license fees.
