ByNYC Pet License: Best Ways to Get One and Why
The Big Apple is one of many states where the law requires dog owners to get a . Officials may ask to see a New York, NY pet license if your dog's missing or if you're out walking and get stopped. Without one, you may get fined anywhere between $25 and $200.
A license is a way to ensure your family pet's protected. Unfortunately, many pet owners don't see why they should waste a New York minute on a pet license, going through what seems a tedious process that appears to have no benefits.
It's ironic considering we want our pet to be healthy and safe. We walk the dog, feed the dog a well-balanced, nutritious meal, see the vet when something's not right. We even put a chip in the creature in case we misplace it. But what about that license?
New Yorkers like to get things done, but we also put a lot of energy into avoiding bureaucracy. We hear about licenses and what comes immediately to mind is long lines and tedious paperwork. The NYC pet license is a process that makes us put off what seems to be an unpleasant chore. It's believed that the production takes time away from something we'd rather do, like watching our faucet drip. With our pet.
At DoNotPay, we can help make it less tedious. For your considerations, here's the scoop on why you want a license for your pet and the best ways to get it done.
How to Get a New York, New York Pet License
Here's how to go about getting your beloved pet a license.
- Apply at the city's licensing bureau. You can do this online or by snail-mailing an application.
- Call 311 and ask for a hard copy of the application.
- You may renew your license.
- There are same-day licensing and vaccination events that take place across the city. Regularly check the City of New York site and click on the 2021 Same-Day Licensing/Vaccination Events tab to see license locations. If you attend, you won't get cited if you don't have a license, and you won't have to pay a late fee on an expired license.
- Grab this PDF for more info.
What's the Cost of a Pet License in New York, New York?
In some cases, owners simply don't realize they have to get a dog registration. Other New Yorkers simply don't want to pay for the license. Here are the following annual fees for a license:
| License Fees | Amount |
| Dog Under 4 Months | $8.50 |
| New License - Neutered or Spayed | $8.50 |
| New License - Non-Neutered/Spayed | $34.00 |
| Renew License - Neutered or Spayed | $8.50 |
| Renew License - Non-Neutered/Spayed | $34.00 |
| Late Fees | $0.00 |
| Lost Tags | $1.00 |
The charges are non-transferable and non-refundable.
- There are associated fees, such as the aforementioned neutering and spaying (around $55).
- Vaccinations are admittedly costly. The exam, testing, and shots can hit several hundred dollars. This is a professional-only operation.
- There are no DIY or online alternatives for getting this done. You need a qualified vet or animal hospital/facility/shelter to take the reins here.
Once you begin the process, it can take up to several weeks to get your pet's license.
Why Get a Pet License in New York, New York?
According to NYC's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, almost 80 percent of New York's dog population are not licensed. Here are sensible reasons why.
The License Shows the Pet is Medically Sound
Here are some medical reasons to get a pet license.
- A pet cannot get a license unless it's received all necessary vaccinations.
- Most professionals who service your pet, like groomers or vets, are legally bound to not provide certain or no services if your animal hasn't gotten its shots.
- The New York, New York pet registration makes it a lot easier to go to the vet, a groomer, or a boarding facility.
- It provides peace of mind knowing your animal's protected from most common health threats.
Your Pet's More Likely to be Found if Lost
With a New York, New York pet license, there's a greater chance your lost pet gets found and returned. On the other hand, if your unlicensed dog ends up with local animal control, there's the possibility of a hefty fee to get your dog back home.
A License Provides Privilege
Shelters use guidelines to euthanize unlicensed dogs, based on a generic schedule more than anything. The city tends to hold onto lost, licensed dogs longer at their shelters, knowing someone out there loves them.
Fees Go to Local Shelters
Shelters use licensing fees to maintain and improve their operations, including providing the best services for animals like yours.
Do Cats Need a License in New York, New York?
There are no laws that require cats to have a license. But all the reasons for licensing a dog also apply to a feline. From ensuring you've met all medical safety requirements to improving the chances of finding her, a cat license improves health, safety, and happiness.
Use DoNotPay in a Few Easy Steps
DoNotPay is the world's first AI Consumer Champion, ready to help you fight big business. But we also have resources to simplify getting a pet license. Here's what to do.
1. Go to the Pet Licenses product on DoNotPay.
2. Enter the county or city you are looking to register your pet in.
3. Tell us more about your pet, including the breed, gender, whether they are spayed/neutered, approximate age, and more.
4. Upload evidence documents that prove that your pet has been spayed/neutered (if applicable) and a copy of the rabies vaccination certificate.
5. Enter your contact information, including email, address, and phone number.
6. Complete your application by paying the license processing fee, so we can file the application on your behalf.
Why Use DoNotPay to Get an NYC Pet License?
DoNotPay is your first line of defense when it comes to licensing, rebates, recalls, and a lot more. We're the advocate for anyone who struggles to get justice or navigate the bottomless pit of red tape. Our process for getting a pet registration promises to be fast, quick, and successful.