How to License Your Dog in NYC

New York State law requires licensing your dog.

New York State law requires that all dogs be licensed and license tags be attached to the dog's collar while in public. Dog owners may be fined for violation of the law. Licensing not only helps the dog owner in case of emergency but also contributes to animal control and the protection of the public health.

Things You'll Need

• Shot records
• Check or money order

Instructions

1. Obtain an application. You can get a NYC Dog Licensing application by calling 311 or by downloading a copy from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. You may also obtain one from a veterinarian, animal shelter or pet shop.

2. Make sure your dog is up-to-date on his rabies shots. You need to provide the date of his most recent shot on the application.

3. Complete the application according to the instructions provided with it.

4. Mail the application, along with your check or money order to New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Veterinary Public Health Services, PO Box 4768, Church Street Station, New York, NY 10261-4768.

5. Wait two to four weeks to receive your dog license. If you haven't received your license in the allotted time, you can check on the status of your application by calling 311.

Tips & Warnings

• You only need to submit a formal application once. After your dog is licensed in NY, a renewal notice will be mailed to you annually. If a renewal form was not received, it can be requested by calling 311.

• If you should change addresses before renewing your license, you must send a change of address request to the dog licensing unit. Owners should send a letter with their name, dog license number, current and changed address information to: Veterinary Public Health Services, Dog Licensing Unit, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, 125 Worth Street, CN 61, New York, NY 10013

References

• NY Dog Licensing Application