Dog licensing essential; Docupet makes it easier
Wayne County Dog Warden and Shelter Director Katelyn Lehman, left, and Wayne County Auditor Russell Robertson pose with Sasha and Howie and remind dog owners Ohio law requires all dogs have a current license. License sales will begin Dec. 1 and end Jan. 31.
Responsible dog ownership in Ohio includes ensuring dogs are properly licensed. It’s not just a legal requirement but a safeguard in case the family pet gets lost.
Wayne County Auditor Russell Robertson and Dog Warden and Shelter Director Katelyn Lehman have teamed up to make purchasing a dog license as streamlined as possible through the online service Docupet.
“Dog owners may still purchase tags in person during business hours at the dog shelter or the auditor’s office,” Robertson said. “But using Docupet is a breeze. Visit their website or download the mobile app, create an account, and enter your dog’s details. The system will automatically calculate the appropriate licensing fees.”
According to Robertson, fees are the same as last year: $16 for one year, $48 for three years or $160 for a lifetime license.
When licensed dogs go missing, they can be easily identified through their tag, making it easier for animal control officers or concerned citizens to reunite the dog with its owner. Docupet also offers specialized tags with additional information, like the owner’s phone number and the dog’s name. There also is an option to donate to the shelter’s medical fund.
A new chipping service makes lost dogs even easier to identify.
The Wayne County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center has recently begun offering a microchipping service that gives dog owners additional peace of mind.
Pet microchipping has emerged as a lifeline for lost and stray animals. It involves the implantation of a rice-sized chip beneath the animal’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. This chip contains an identification number linked to a database, allowing shelters, veterinarians and animal control officers to quickly access the owner’s contact information. Microchipping is an additional layer of protection if a collar gets removed.
“Microchipping a dog and obtaining a proper license are two essential practices that complement each other in ensuring a pet’s safety and responsible ownership,” Lehman said. “Together, these measures create a robust safety net. Should a dog go missing, a microchip can quickly lead to the pet’s return while a license ensures that the owner is traceable and accountable under Ohio law.”
According to Lehman, a microchip is automatically cross-referenced with the license when purchased through the shelter. The one-time cost for microchipping is $20. Anyone interested in microchipping their dog may call the Wayne County Dog Shelter Tuesday through Saturday at 330-345-1018 to schedule an appointment for implantation.
Visit the shelter online at www.waynedogshelter.org.
Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.