Protect Your Pooch

Renew deadline extended

By Sarah Grace Smith

It’s time to renew your dog license. Due to COVID-19, Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano extended the 2021 deadline to July 1, so there’s still time to register your dog without late fees or fines.

But what exactly is a dog license, and why should you get one?

Dog licensing is an important requirement for all dog owners. First off, it is required by law, so owning an unlicensed dog is punishable by fine. A dog license also ensures protection.

By licensing your dog, you are protecting it in case it gets loose and is found by someone in the community. It also protects other dogs in the area by making sure dogs are vaccinated and can’t spread diseases to their furry friends.

Thanks to the found dog search feature on the auditor’s website, www.franklincountyauditor.com, it is the best way to ensure that lost pets will be safely returned home.

Owners must license any outdoor or indoor dog older than 3 months. Licenses must be renewed annually, unless a three-year or permanent dog license is purchased.

All dogs 4 months or older must have a rabies vaccine in order to be licensed. Dogs older than 1 year must be vaccinated every three years.

In order to stymie the overpopulation of dogs in Franklin County, the auditor’s office offers a $18 annual discount for dogs that are spayed or neutered.

The discount also applies if the dog is younger than 9 months, elderly, diagnosed with a qualifying condition, being bred or used for hunting.

If owners choose a permanent dog license, they must remember to update their address in order to aid the auditor’s office in returning lost dogs home.

Applications for dog licenses can be filled out online or by mail.

So, what does the auditor’s office do with the money from licensing fees? The office invests nearly all the funds into the rescue, care and housing of the community’s lost and stray dogs at the Franklin County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center. A portion is also donated to The Ohio State University to research animal diseases.

If a lost or stray dog is found, they should be brought to the shelter to be

reclaimed by and reunited with their owners.

Best New Albany dog parks

Did you know that dogs need exercise and socialization to live their best, happy and healthy lives? A great way for your dog to get both these activities in is by visiting a dog park!

After licensing and vaccinating your furry friend, take it on a trip to one of these New Albany area parks.

Many dog parks are part of Columbus Metro Parks or city parks and include trails, walking paths and more. Remember when visiting to bring a leash for when your dog is outside of the fenced area, a water bowl and a towel if your dog is a swimmer.

Big Walnut Dog Park

This park has sections for small and big dogs which open up toward a pond. Parking is available, and portable restrooms and picnic tables are on site.

Rocky Fork Metro Park

Rocky Fork Metro Park not only has fenced small and large dog areas, but also a splash pad for the dogs to play in. The park has a small off-leash trail as well.

Sarah Grace Smith is an editorial assistant. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.