Bureau to begin effort to ensure canine health, safety
WAYNESBURG – The state Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement canvass of Greene County began Monday as part of its efforts to ensure dogs are licensed, vaccinated and safe. State law requires that all dogs 3 months of age or older be licensed by Jan. 1 of each year. The fee is $6 for each spayed or neutered dog and $8 for other dogs. Senior citizens and people with disabilities may purchase a license for $4 for spayed or neutered dogs and $6 for other dogs.
Additionally, rabies vaccinations are required for all dogs and any cat 3 months of age or older that enters a human dwelling. The maximum fine per violation of the licensing requirement and rabies law is $300. Court costs also may be assessed.
According to bureau officials, ensuring dogs are licensed with up-to-date vaccinations is the surest way to keep pets safe and healthy.
For instance, if a dog gets lost, having a current license is the fastest way for it to be reunited with its owner. Dogs that lack a current license could be transferred to shelters far from their homes and adopted by other families if the original owner cannot be identified.
Dog licenses are available through the office of Greene County Treasurer Cory L. Grandel at 93 E. High St., Waynesburg, and through the following authorized dog license agents: Bobtown Market, Bobtown; Carmichaels Borough Building; Humane Society of Greene County, Waynesburg; Ruff Creek General Store, Prosperity; Springhill Animal Clinic, New Freeport; Stan Lee’s, Crucible; and Trader’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Jefferson.
Anyone submitting an application by mail should include a self-addressed envelope, which will be used in returning the license and receipt.
All dogs must be under control and are not permitted to run-at-large. Complaints may be reported to state dog law enforcement officer John C. Thomas at 724-451-8278.
For more information, contact the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement by calling 717-787-3062, or visit online at www.agriculture.state.pa.us, click on “Bureaus, Commissions & Councils,” then click on “Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement.”
To report unlicensed dog kennels or unsatisfactory kennel conditions, call the confidential toll-free tip line at 1-877-DOG-TIP1. For more information on purchasing a dog license in Greene County, call the county treasurer’s office at 724-852-5225.