Over 2,600 More Dogs Licensed in Hamilton during October Amnesty Campaign

Hamilton, ON – November 14, 2016 – The City of Hamilton Animal Services sold over 1,200 new dog licenses and processed over 1,400 overdue renewals in October 2016. Animal Services launched a one-month campaign to encourage dog owners who had a lapsed or non-existing licence for their pet to purchase one and not pay late fees or past years’ fees.

The new dog licences, combined with overdue and regular renewals, pushed the monthly total to 3,658 dog licences sold in October 2016, amounting to $117,056 in revenue.

To date, Animal Services has sold 6,438 more licences in 2016 in comparison to the same ten-month period in 2015. The average fee for an annual regular dog licence is $36.33. For seniors or those with a disability, the average one-year fee is $18.63.

“Our October amnesty campaign results were a great push in the right direction,” says Ken Leendertse, Director of Licensing. “Dog owners were receptive to our message about the benefits of dog licensing, including the assurance that their dog can more easily be returned home should it get lost.”

The community also benefits, as $1 from each dog licence goes towards funding Hamilton’s leash-free parks.

Hamilton Animal Services estimates there are approximately 70,000 dogs across Hamilton; however, only 50% are properly licensed. Through a number of proactive measures, such as the door-to-door dog licensing education campaign, a Facebook page, and the amnesty program, the City aims to increase compliance to 90% within a couple of years.

“We still have more work to do, and are committed to continuing to get the word out,” adds Leendertse.

The City of Hamilton’s Responsible Animal Ownership By-law requires that all dog owners obtain an annual dog licence before the animal is three months old. The licence must be attached to the dog's collar.

Cat Licensing

Currently, cat registration with Animal Services is optional but it comes with the same benefits as a dog licence. City of Hamilton’s Planning Committee on Tuesday, November 15 will discuss mandatory cat licensing in Hamilton’s urban area (see item 7.1 on the agenda). Cats make up over 60% of the domestic animals that Animal Services staff cares for annually.

The proposed licensing would provide funding to enable the City to collaborate with community partners and collectively address the cat overpopulation and rabies problems, as well as provide a safe and healthy community.

For more information on animal licensing, visit www.hamilton.ca/doglicence.