Del Norte Animal Control offers license relief for pet owners

Del Norte County Director of Animal Control Justin Riggs reminds pet owners that the licensing period for 2020 was Dec. 1, 2019, through Feb. 3, 2020. To offer some relief for the monetary issues associated with the COVID-19 shutdowns, Riggs said those who may have a delinquent license will not be sent to collections this year.

In most cases, formal letters notifying individuals of license delinquency have not been mailed out. If you wish to pay your late license and penalty now, Animal Control is happy to work with you by phone, email or regular mail to accomplish the task.

“While we are all stressed financially, we encourage you to think about making a payment now,” Riggs said, “as these 2020 delinquent fees will apply and be due when you license for 2021.”

Riggs said if your animal should happen to be impounded and the license is delinquent, costs for license and penalty must be paid.

“Couple with impound, board and mileage fees, the charges for a redemption can be expensive and a current license would definitely reduce the bail money,” Riggs said.

If you are not certain you have a current license (cosmic yellow paper this year) or may have misplaced your paperwork, phone the Animal Control office at 464-7235 to double-check the status for your pet. Keep in mind there must be a current rabies vaccination on file for Animal Control to renew your license or add a new dog.