Dog license deadline nearing

Whether you own a Labrador retriever, Shih Tzu, Chihuahua (the Central Okanagan’s top three licensed dog breeds) or a loveable mutt, all Central Okanagan dog owners have until the end of February to save by renewing or purchasing a new dog license.

Those purchasing a new or renewing an existing dog license before February 28 will save $20 off the regular annual license fees. On March 1, regular annual rates will apply – $40 for a dog that is spayed/neutered and $80 if not. The fee discount and rates do not apply to licenses for aggressive or dangerous dogs.

All dogs in the Central Okanagan must be licensed as required by the Responsible Dog Ownership Bylaw. At the end of 2020, there were just over 22,000 licensed dogs in the region. More than 16,000 dog owners recently received a renewal notice by mail or email.

License renewals or purchases are quick, easy and secure using the online links at rdco.com/dogs. It also helps reduce person to person contacts during the COVID pandemic.

If owners wish to renew or buy a new license in person, visit the Regional District office in Kelowna (1450 KLO Road), the Regional Dog Pound (890 Weddell Place), municipal offices in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country and the Peachland Recreation Centre. Visitors to these facilities should anticipate health and safety requirements including the wearing of masks and physical distancing.

The Regional District reminds all dog owners to keep their license up to date as there is zero tolerance and a hefty fine for unlicensed dogs.

A license makes it easy to return a dog to its owner if it gets away and supports the service provided to all dog owners in the Central Okanagan.

For more information about dog licensing and Responsible Dog Ownership in the Central Okanagan visit rdco.com/dogs.