Dog Tags/Licenses

Dog License Application 

It is a state law in Virginia that all dogs be licensed. Dog licenses must be purchased by January 31 of each year for any dog four (4) months old or older. If an animal reaches the age of four (4) months after January 31 or if a person acquires an animal that does not have a current license, the owner should purchase the license immediately. As of July 1, 2007, per 3.1-796.87:1 of the Code of Virginia, veterinarians are required to report within 45 days of giving a rabies vaccine a copy of the rabies vaccination or the information contained in such a certificate to the Treasurer of the locality in which they practice. With this information on file you may complete the application for animal license and forward it to the Treasurer’s Office with the appropriate payment from the chart below. This may be done by mail or in person. It may take up to 90 days for the dog license to be issued, pending verification of the rabies once received from the vet. If you would like the tag to be issued immediately, please send a copy of your rabies certificate along with the appropriate fee. Owners of multiple dogs may purchase a multi-dog license. In order to obtain a multi-dog license for the first time, contact Animal Control to schedule an inspection of the property and facilities used to house these dogs. Upon completion of the inspection, Animal Control will issue a certificate to be taken to the Treasurer’s Office to purchase your multi-dog license. If you are renewing your multi-dog license, you should receive a letter by mail in October, providing instructions on how to renew your license. The penalty for not obtaining a Dog License is a Class 4 misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $250.

If you have questions concerning purchasing dog licenses, please contact the Treasurer’s Office at 540-507-7058. The office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM