Is Your Pet Licensed? Animal License Canvassing Begins in Artesia

Officers from the Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) will be canvassing pets living throughout the city of Artesia this month.

The officers will be checking homes and pet owners for licensing requirements as well as the mandatory spay/neuter and microchip ordinance and current rabies vaccinations, according to county department officials.

Artesia residents should note that City Hall will no longer be issuing registration forms during this period, according to the city's website.

All registrants are advised to go to L.A. County - Downey Animal Care Center at 11258 Garfield Ave. in Downey to obtain the proper registration forms. You can also secure a new dog license by printing the application online at http://animalcare.lacounty.gov. If your pet's license is not delinquent, it can be renewed through the Internet. For more information, Animal Control can be reached at (562) 940-6898.

DACC offers low cost vaccination clinics and low cost assistance (for individuals who qualify) for spay and neuter surgeries. Please visit the DACC website or stop by your local County animal care center for more information about these services.

Licensing and Vaccination Requirements for Dogs

California State law requires that all dogs over the age of four months be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Securing a dog license is an important part of identification and can assist animal control agencies if your pet becomes lost.

Dog owners are advised to be in compliance with licensing and the mandatory spay/neuter and microchip ordinance if they reside in any unincorporated area of Los Angeles County (or contract city that has adopted the County's ordinance). Residents not in compliance will be subject to license fees and delinquency charges, including a $40 field enforcement fee to offset the cost of the Department's field services.