Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Schuylkill County Treasurer Announces Changes to Dog License Fees



In a recent announcement, Schuylkill County Treasurer Linda Yeich has announced alterations to the fees for dog licenses in anticipation of the upcoming year. 

The revisions, mandated by state law, apply to all dogs aged eight weeks or older and are aimed at enhancing public safety and animal welfare standards.

Beginning from December 1st, 2023, through January 31st, 2024, dog owners are advised of two adjustments in license fees. In response to an increase in postage costs, regular male/female dog licenses will be priced at $8.70, with a reduced fee of $6.70 for spayed/neutered dogs. For senior/disabled dog owners, the fee for male/female dog licenses will be $6.70, and a discounted price of $4.70 will be applicable for spayed/neutered dogs.

Lifetime dog license fees will also undergo slight modifications during this period. Regular male/female lifetime dog licenses will be set at $51.70, with a discounted rate of $31.70 for spayed/neutered dogs. Senior/Disabled male/female lifetime dog licenses will be priced at $31.70, with a reduced fee of $21.70 for spayed/neutered dogs.

Ss of February 1st, 2024, the regular male/female dog license fee remains $8.70, while the senior/disabled male/female dog license fee is $6.70. Notably, there will no longer be a discount for spaying/neutering during this period.

Lifetime dog licenses will also see adjustments at this time. The regular male/female lifetime license fee will be $52.70, and the senior/disabled male/female lifetime license fee will be $36.70.  Again, from February 1st, 2024, there will be no discount available for spaying/neutering when obtaining a lifetime dog license.

For dog owners considering a lifetime license, these licenses are exclusively available for dogs that have been microchipped. A veterinarian must complete a Permanent Identification Verification Form along with a Lifetime Application. Importantly, the Permanent Identification Verification Form holds validity for only thirty days post-completion by the veterinarian.

Failure to comply with dog licensing requirements is considered a summary offense, and owners may face a maximum fine of $300 for each unlicensed dog.