They say that a dog is man’s best friend, and I couldn’t agree more.
Every time I walk in the door (or room), Snowball greets me as if he hasn’t seen me in ages. He has a special excitement as he runs towards me, tail enthusiastically wagging, ready to leap right into my arms. He provides me with love and purpose, countless laughs and often fills me with awe as I wonder if there truly could be a smarter, or cuter, dog on the planet.
There have been numerous studies to show the benefits of owning a dog. More than just cuddly companions, dogs provide tangible benefits ranging from reducing stress to living longer, healthier lives. And because they do so much to support us, we should be doing right by them in return.
License your dog. It’s the law.
Many new (and veteran) dog owners do not realize that it is a law in New York State to license your dog. All dogs older than 4 months must provide documentation of being rabies vaccinated. Licensing fees vary, but discounts are available to the annual fees for owners older than 60 years of age and for those whose dog is spayed or neutered.
Many people still wonder, however, why they must license their dogs. Besides the fact that it is state law, here are some of the extra reasons why you should have a dog license.
Lost dog – In the event that your dog gets separated from you, the license tag on their collar will be an added insurance to return your pet to you safely and efficiently. Whoever may find your dog can contact the Town and we will be able to reunite you with your dog easily.
Safe dog – Licensing your dog proves that your dog is up to date with vaccinations. Not only will it help you remember to get annual vaccinations, but again, in the event that your dog becomes separated from you, good Samaritans will be more comfortable handling and helping your pet knowing that they are safe from rabies.
Good dog – In order to stay compliant, dog licenses need to be renewed annually. They expire after 12 months. It is imperative that you not only license your dog but that you keep up to date with the licensing renewals.
Smart dog – The cost of annual fees range from $2.50-$15 depending on the dog and owner. Fines or civil penalties are up to $25 for the first offense, $50 for the second offense and $100 for the third and subsequent offenses. It is a lot more cost-effective to license your dog than to get a ticket for no license.
Philanthropic dog- A portion of license fees goes to help fund the Animal Population Control Program. So licensing your dog actually means that you are helping to take care of the stray animals in our Town.
Social dog – Only dogs with licenses are permitted to access our wonderful dog parks and areas. The recently opened Dog Park at Michael J. Tully Park allows for licensed dogs to play in the enclosed areas with the play equipment and with other dogs of similar size.
Dog Events- We have had various dog events throughout the Town, including a special dog swim at the end of summer, walk a thons like the Walk and Wag which benefits the North Shore Animal League, and our free rabies clinic offered periodically at the Yes We Can Community Center and the North Hempstead Animal Shelter.
On Saturday, Oct. 26, the Town is hosting a HOWL-O-WEEN Event at Tully Park which we are thrilled about. It will be a fun Halloween festival for the entire family featuring a pet costume contest, music, crafts, and giveaways.
Dogs of North Hempstead- and speaking of HOWL-O-WEEN and other contests, our office is sponsoring a Town of North Hempstead DOG OF THE MONTH contest. Our first winner will be announced at the HOWL-O-WEEN event. All dogs entered will be featured as Dogs of North Hempstead.
To enter your dog as a pawticipant, your dog must be currently licensed (new or existing, not expired). Please submit a photo of your dog with their name and community in which you live with either their licensing paperwork or upload onto social media with the hashtag #dogsofnorthhempstead. One lucky pooch will receive a prize pack and certificate each month, declaring them the reigning Dog of the Month.
To apply for a dog license, dog owners must submit the completed application along with payment, proof of rabies vaccination and a certificate of spay/neuter, if applicable, directly to the Town Clerk’s Office or the North Hempstead Animal Shelter in Port Washington. More information can be found under Dog Licenses in the Clerk tab of the North Hempstead website or by calling 311.
Don’t turn your furry friend into a fugitive. License your dog. It’s the law.
