Dog Licenses
Why License My Dog?
- Failure to purchase a dog license is a Class IV Misdemeanor which can carry up to a $250 fine. Veterinarians are also required by Virginia State code section 3.2-6529 to provide the Treasurer's Office in each locality with a copy of all canine rabies vaccination certificates.
- A license tells everyone that your pet is not a homeless stray, and can identify you as the owner should your pet be found running loose.
- Animal Control Officers will attempt to deliver your licensed dog home to you immediately, skipping a trip to the animal shelter.
- Dog licenses are required for entrance to many dog parks.
- License fees support Animal Services programs including: care and housing for approximately 3,000 stray and abandoned animals a year, investigations of animal neglect and cruelty, emergency rescue and response services for animals, adopting homeless pets to new families, and community education and outreach.
License Requirements
- The Commonwealth of Virginia mandates Loudoun County to require all dogs four months of age and older to be licensed.
- In Loudoun County, dog licenses are issued concurrently with the rabies vaccination effective period for each individual dog.
- The county issues permanent tags to remain with the dog for its lifetime (replacement tags are available if needed).
- All dogs must have a license tag securely attached to a collar and worn whenever the dog is off of the owner’s property.
- Citizens have the option to purchase dog licenses for one, two or three year periods provided that the rabies certificate is valid for the period of time being covered.
- The cost is $10 per dog, per year, regardless of spay / neuter status.
Veterinarians
All veterinarians practicing in Loudoun County are required to submit monthly rabies reports for their clients to Loudoun County Animal Services within 45 days.