Navajo County dog licenses now available at Pet Allies

Posted: Monday, January 3, 2011 5:00 am | Updated: 7:25 pm, Sun Jan 2, 2011.

WHITE MOUNTAINS - In order to provide better service to its clients, and insure the safe return of pets to their families, Pet Allies is working with Navajo County Animal Control to sell dog licenses for families who live in Navajo County.

Wondering if you are required to have a county license for your dog? Arizona State law requires that all dogs over the age of three months have a license and rabies vaccination. Navajo County Animal Control licenses all dogs in unincorporated areas of Navajo County. If you live in a city, check with the city police department for information on getting a license.

Dog tags may seem like one more tax, but it's also a benefit to you and your dog. A dog, found by a good samaritan or an animal control officer, can quickly be reunited with its family. Shelters are overfull and returning the dog to its owner will free up space for animals that have been abandoned or are no longer wanted by their families. It's also the law. Penalties apply for non-licensed dogs.

Pet Allies often hears 'my dog never goes anywhere without me' or 'my cat never goes outside'. What happens when UPS delivers? Or visitors come to your home? Does your dog rush to the door to greet them? Isn't it possible the dog may take your temporary distraction as an opportunity to dash out the door? The license can get that dog back home to you quickly and safely.

While the State of Arizona does not require cats to be licensed, it is a good idea to get your cat an ID tag on a safe cat collar, so if your cat gets loose the cat will have a better chance of being returned to you.

You can purchase your Navajo County license at Pet Allies clinic, located at 4050 S White Mountain Road, Show Low, just off White Mountain Blvd and Fawnbrook, near Pizza Hut. Dogs must have a current rabies immunization to obtain a license. Rabies vaccinations from Pet Allies cost $10 for a dog or a cat. Appointments are required for rabies vaccinations. For more information or questions, call (928) 532-1602 or come by the Barkin' Basement thrift Store, Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to speak with someone. You may also e-mail CM@PetAlliesAz.org.