SUNBURY - Northumberland County Treasurer Kevin P. Gilroy issued a reminder to dog owners that 2014 licenses are now overdue. He estimated that more than 4,500 dogs in the county are still not licensed.
Licenses must be renewed each year by Jan. 1 regardless of when the dog owner purchased the previous year's license. Licenses are valid from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 of each year.
State law mandates that all dogs 3 months of age and older must have a current year license. Absence of a license puts the owner at risk of a fine of $300, plus court costs, per dog, that could be assessed by the dog warden.
The fee is $6.45 for each spayed or neutered dog and $8.45 for other dogs. Senior citizens and persons with disabilities may purchase a license for $4.45 for spayed or neutered dogs and $6.45 for others. Lifetime licenses are only available at the treasurer's office.
All dogs and non-feral cats three months of age and older must be vaccinated against rabies. Booster vaccinations must be administered periodically to maintain lifelong immunity.
Gilroy said dog wardens are canvassing the county using PADogLicense.com. They could be visiting any neighborhood at any time to verify dogs are licensed and properly vaccinated.
Dog owners can apply for, pay for and print their dog licenses online at www.padoglicense.com. There is a $2 service fee per license. When you purchase your dog license online, the dog is immediately legal. Dog owners will also receive email notifications to renew the license ast the end of the year. The dog's metal tags are mailed by the treasurer's office the same day.
Dog owners may also stop by the treasurer's office at 399 S. Fifth St., Sunbury, between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. If applying by mail, send a completed dog application with the proper fee and signed by the dog owner with check made payable to "Northumberland County Treasurer." Those who no longer have the dogs should contact the office at 570-988-4161 so records can be adjusted.
Gilroy also pointed out that if a licensed dog is lost, the ownermay go to www.palostdogs.com and post the dog's photo and information for free.