Owning a dog in Morrow County, Ohio comes with responsibilities, and one of the most important legal requirements is obtaining a dog license. Licensing your dog ensures your pet is registered with the county, making it easier to identify and return your dog if lost or strayed. It also helps local authorities maintain public safety, track vaccination compliance, and support animal welfare programs. Dog licensing is not just a legal obligation it is a crucial step in responsible pet ownership. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of dog licensing in Morrow County, including types, fees, requirements, and the application process.
Why Dog Licensing Is Important
Dog licensing in Morrow County serves multiple key purposes. First, it ensures the proper identification of pets. Each dog receives a tag with a unique ID number, which makes it easy for authorities or neighbors to identify and return a lost or stray dog to its rightful owner. Second, it ensures legal compliance with Ohio state law. All dogs over three months of age must be licensed, and failure to do so can result in fines or other penalties. Third, dog licensing contributes to public safety by allowing local animal control to monitor vaccination records and reduce the risk of rabies or other contagious diseases. In addition, license fees are used to support animal control and shelters in Morrow County, providing funding for animal care and welfare programs. Finally, having a valid license can prevent impoundment, since unlicensed dogs are more likely to be taken into custody if found roaming without identification.
Rabies Vaccination Requirement
Before obtaining a dog license in Morrow County, all dogs must have a valid rabies vaccination. This requirement ensures the health and safety of both pets and the community. Dogs without a current rabies certificate are not eligible for licensing, and failure to provide proof may result in denial of registration.
Key Details of Rabies Vaccination Requirement:
- Certificate Must Include: Dog identification, date of vaccination, expiration date, and veterinarian’s signature.
- Frequency: Depending on the veterinarian’s recommendation, vaccines can be valid for either 1 year or 3 years.
- Legal Requirement: Compliance with Ohio state law is mandatory, helping prevent rabies outbreaks and ensuring public safety.
Tip: Always keep a copy of the vaccination certificate handy when applying for a license, whether in person or online.
Who Needs a Dog License
Licensing requirements in Morrow County apply to all dog owners who meet the following criteria:
- Dogs over three months of age must be licensed.
- New dogs brought into the county must be licensed within 30 days of acquisition.
- New residents moving to Morrow County must license their dogs within 30 days of establishing residency.
- Service dogs are also required to be licensed and have up to date rabies vaccination proof.
Licensing ensures that every dog in the county is properly registered, identifiable, and compliant with state laws, reducing risks to both the pet and the community.
Dog Licensing Authority in Morrow County
| Authority | Role | Contact | Address | Office Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morrow County Auditor’s Office | Issues dog licenses, maintains records, enforces compliance | 419‑946‑4060 | 48 E. High Street, Mt. Gilead, OH 43338 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Auditor | Conni McChesney | – | – | – |
Online Licensing Option: Dog owners can also apply for a license online during the official licensing period. The dog tag is mailed or available for pick up.
Dog License Types and Fees
Morrow County provides different types of dog licenses to accommodate the needs of pet owners and ensure all dogs in the county are legally registered. The type of license you choose depends on the age of your dog, the number of dogs you own, or whether you need to replace or transfer an existing license. Obtaining the correct license not only keeps you compliant with Ohio law but also helps ensure the safety and identification of your pet. Licensing fees contribute to local animal control programs and shelters, supporting the welfare of all animals in Morrow County.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the available dog license types, associated fees, due dates, and potential late charges:
| License Type | Fee | Details | Due Date | Late Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dog License | $18.00 per dog | For all adult dogs over 3 months | January 31 | $18.00 per dog |
| Kennel License | $90 for 5 tags | Requires Dog Warden Inspection Letter; extra tags $1 each | January 31 | $90 + $1 per extra tag |
| Duplicate/Transfer License | $5.00 | For lost tag or transfer to new owner | Anytime | – |
Tip: Attach the new dog tag to your dog’s collar immediately to ensure safe identification and quick return if your pet becomes lost.
Licensing Deadlines and Penalties
| Deadline Type | Deadline | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Annual License Renewal | January 31 | Late fee applies ($18/adult dog, $90/kennel) |
| New Dog / New Resident | Within 30 days | Potential fines if not licensed timely |
Kennel License Specifics
For dog owners who operate a kennel or have multiple dogs, Morrow County offers a Kennel License to cover multiple pets under a single registration. This license is specifically designed for those with five or more dogs and ensures that all animals are properly registered and compliant with Ohio law. Obtaining a kennel license requires a Dog Warden Inspection Letter and must be processed through the Morrow County Auditor’s Office, as it is not available online.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fee | $90 for the first 5 tags |
| Additional Tags | $1 per dog |
| Requirements | Dog Warden Inspection Letter |
| Due Date | January 31 |
| Late Fee | $90 + $1 per extra tag |
| Availability | Auditor’s Office only (not online) |
Tip: Make sure all dog tags are attached to collars immediately to ensure proper identification and quick recovery if dogs get lost.
Duplicate or Transfer License
If a dog tag is lost or ownership changes, Morrow County provides a Duplicate or Transfer License. This ensures continuous registration and identification of your dog without requiring a full new license.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fee | $5.00 |
| Purpose | Replace a lost tag or transfer license to a new owner |
| Availability | Anytime through Auditor’s Office |
Tip: Always update the license when ownership changes to maintain legal compliance and ensure the dog can be identified and returned if lost.
How to Apply for a Dog License
Obtaining a dog license in Morrow County is a straightforward process, and residents have the option to apply either in person or online. Following the correct steps ensures your dog is legally registered, identifiable, and compliant with Ohio state law.
In Person Application
Dog owners can visit the Morrow County Auditor’s Office during regular business hours. To complete the process, you will need:
- A valid rabies vaccination certificate
- Proof of dog ownership
- Payment for the appropriate license type (cash or check)
Once submitted, you will receive your dog tag and registration certificate immediately. This option is ideal for owners who prefer face to face assistance or have multiple dogs to license at once.
Online Application
For convenience, dog owners can also license their dogs online. During the official licensing period, you can:
- Upload your dog’s rabies vaccination certificate
- Select the appropriate license type
- Pay the required fees securely
Apply quickly and easily at DogLicenses.us to receive your dog tag by mail or pick it up from the Auditor’s Office. The online method is especially helpful for busy residents or those who prefer a contact free process.
Helping Locate Lost Dogs
Dog licenses play a crucial role in identifying and safely returning lost pets in Morrow County. Each registered dog receives a unique license number, which acts as an official identifier, helping authorities or neighbors trace the dog back to its owner quickly. This system minimizes the risk of lost pets remaining unclaimed and ensures their safety. For added convenience, Morrow County offers an online license search tool, allowing owners and animal control personnel to verify license information. You can check your dog’s registration easily at DogLicenses.us License Search to facilitate fast recovery if your dog goes missing.
Key Points to Remember
- Dog licensing is mandatory and ensures compliance with Ohio law.
- Attach the dog tag immediately to the collar.
- Keep rabies vaccination certificates updated and accessible.
- Licensing fees fund animal control and shelters.
- Deadlines are strict missing them results in penalties or impoundment.
Conclusion
Obtaining a dog license in Morrow County, Ohio is essential for every dog owner. Licensing ensures legal compliance, protects public health, and helps identify and return lost pets quickly. By keeping rabies vaccinations up to date and selecting the appropriate license type adult, kennel, or duplicate/transfer owners support local animal control programs and shelters. Timely registration prevents fines and impoundment, making dog licensing a vital step in responsible pet ownership and community safety throughout Morrow County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dog license in Morrow County?
A dog license in Morrow County is an official registration issued by the Auditor’s Office. It includes a unique tag number that identifies your pet and ensures compliance with Ohio law. Licensing helps authorities return lost dogs, supports public safety, and funds local animal shelters. All dogs over three months old must be licensed, and proper rabies vaccination proof is required to obtain a license.
How do I apply for a dog license in Morrow County?
Dog owners can apply in person at the Morrow County Auditor’s Office or online during the official licensing period. Required documents include a valid rabies vaccination certificate and proof of ownership. Fees depend on license type. The online system allows you to pay securely and receive your dog tag by mail or pick up. Visit DogLicenses.us for convenient online applications.
What are the fees for dog licenses in Morrow County?
Morrow County offers different license types with specific fees. An adult dog license costs $18 per dog, a kennel license is $90 for five tags plus $1 per additional dog, and a duplicate or transfer license is $5. Late fees apply if the license is not obtained by the January 31 deadline. These fees support local animal shelters and welfare programs.
Do service dogs need a license?
Yes, all dogs in Morrow County, including service dogs, must be licensed. Licensing ensures legal compliance and provides a way to identify the dog if it is lost. Service dogs must also have up-to-date rabies vaccination records. Licensing these dogs helps maintain public safety, ensures responsible ownership, and supports animal control programs throughout the county.
What happens if I don’t renew my dog license?
Failing to renew a dog license in Morrow County may result in fines and late fees. Unlicensed dogs are also at risk of being impounded by animal control authorities. Renewing on time ensures compliance with Ohio law, keeps vaccination records up to date, and protects your dog from unnecessary stress or shelter placement. Always check deadlines and attach the new tag to your dog’s collar.
How can I locate my lost dog using the license?
Each licensed dog has a unique tag number that identifies it in Morrow County records. If a dog goes missing, authorities or neighbors can use this number to quickly trace the owner. Morrow County provides an online license search tool at DogLicenses.us License Search, which allows owners and animal control to verify registration details and expedite the safe recovery of lost pets.