HARRISBURG, June 19, 2012 – State Sen. Judy Schwank today reminded dog owners that Pennsylvania law requires that they purchase an annual dog license.

“Obtaining a state license is not only the law, but it’s also one more way you can show your love for your four-legged friend,” said Schwank, the Democratic chair of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. “A license can be crucial if a dog gets lost, so take this simple preventative step today for your beloved pet.”

Dog owners can purchase an annual license from the state for $8.45 or a lifetime license for $51.45. For dogs that are spayed or neutered, the annual license is $6.45 and a lifetime license is $31.45.

State law requires that all dogs three months or older be licensed. Owners who fail to get a dog license face a maximum $300 fine per unlicensed dog.

To obtain a dog license, log on to www.agriculture.state.pa.us and click on the icon “License Your Dog. It’s the Law” or visit the County Treasurer’s Office, located at the Berks County Services Center, 633 Court Street, 2nd Floor, in Reading.

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