Dog licenses fund safety, reunite pets with owners, and keep shelters running, officials say

In Wayne County and across Ohio, a small metal tag on a dog’s collar represents more than just proof of purchase: It reflects a state law rooted in centuries-old practice, shaped by public health concerns, local government responsibilities and the simple question: Who is responsible when the dog wanders, bites or carries disease?

According to Wayne County Dog Shelter Director and Dog Warden Katelyn Lehman, the laws surrounding dog licensure have deep roots.

“The obligation to license dogs in Ohio is codified in the state statutes,” Lehman said. “It basically says that every person who owns, keeps or harbors a dog more than 3 months of age shall apply for registration each year. The licensing requirement has been a fixture of Ohio law for decades, evolving with county administration and the state’s animal-control system.”

Each year the licensing renewal season opens Dec. 1 and ends Jan. 31.

Licensing is available online at waynecounty.docupet.com/en_US/licensing/waynecounty or by visiting the Wayne County Auditor’s Office or the Wayne County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center during business hours.

The license serves as proof of registration and enables the county to provide rescue services more effectively. The shelter processes approximately 750 dogs each year, according to Lehman, and thanks to licensing, about 30% of them have been returned to their owners.

Why does Ohio require dog owners, keepers or harborers to register their animals?

Three key factors emerge from the law:

—The application must list the dog’s age, sex, color, hair type, breed (if known), and the owner’s name and address. This information helps find an owner if the dog is impounded or lost.

—Licensing allows counties to keep track of dogs, ensure they’ve had necessary vaccinations and they are kept under control.

—The license fees are deposited into the dog and kennel fund and used to pay for equipment, dog wardens, impound costs and other administrative costs.

The law isn’t just about buying a tag. It’s a mechanism for counties and the state to promote public safety, track owned animals, deter roaming of unvaccinated dogs and provide a funding base for animal-control services.

License fees:

—One-year license: $18.

—Three-year license: $54.

—Lifetime license: $180.

—Puppy license: $9.

—Service dog: $0.

Puppy licenses are available from July 1 to Nov. 30 for puppies 3 months old and younger.

Failure to file the registration and pay the fee by Jan. 31 will result in a penalty equal to the registration fee for one year.

Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.