Norwalk clerk: License your dog

NORWALK— Yep, you can get your dog a new license now.

Last year Norwalk saw a record number 2,716 dog licenses issued, Town Clerk Rick McQuaid said. All of these licenses must be renewed for 2013. Any new dogs over six months of age or currently unlicensed, must also register at this time.

The clerk’s office is now issuing licenses, which become effective July 1 and are valid through June 30, 2014.

Dog license fees contributed $11,430 to Norwalk’s coffers in Fiscal Year 2012, which ended June 30, 2012, Finance Director Thomas Hamilton said. As of May 17 the city had collected $4,715.50 for Fiscal Year 2013, he said. As annual dog license renewals are due in the month of June the majority of the dog license revenue is collected in June each year.

Fiscal Year 2011 netted $11,922.50.

Owners of unlicensed dogs could be subject to a $75 fine. Fees for neutered and spayed dogs are $8, and the fees for unneutered and unspayed dogs are $19. In July, the fees increase by $1, and each month thereafter, another $1 is added to the original fee. If expired, a current rabies certificates signed by a veterinarian must be presented to the office to comply with state law. If a dog has not been registered before, a neutering or spaying certificate must also be presented for the first time when registering if the dog has been altered.

The hours to purchase these licenses are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Thursday the hours are 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Renewals may also be mailed in. Include a self addressed, stamped envelope for your return.

The Town Clerk Office is located in room 102, City Hall, 125 East Ave.

Per Connecticut State Statute 22-349: All dogs must be licensed with the city.