June Is

Dog License Month

By Kendra Bobowick

Theo flopped on his back with his paws swiping the air while Assistant Animal Control Officer Matt Schaub tried to sit him next to a sign that states, June is Dog License Month.

Instead, the young dog’s energy had him tugging at his leash, sniffing, rolling on the ground, then popping back up for some attention. Stepping inside for a treat to hopefully quiet the dog, Mr Schaub handed the leash to Animal Control Officer Carolee Mason.

Town Clerk Debbie Aurelia laughed while she waited for Theo and Ms Mason to take a quick walk through the lot until Mr Schaub returned.

This month, Ms Aurelia urges residents to renew their pets’ licenses. Spayed and neutered dog licenses are $8, otherwise the price is $19. Some of the revenue goes toward the town’s dog fund that provides medical care, while a portion of funds goes toward canine cancer research, she said. Visit the town clerk’s office in the Newtown Municipal Center for renewals.

Owners will need to bring proof of a current rabies certificate, which is required for the dog to receive its license. Dogs should also wear their tags at all times. Dogs without rabies certificates could be quarantined for up to six months if an incident occurs. Also, if the animal control staff picks up an unlicensed dog, the owner must purchase the license before retrieving the pet.

With a new approach in mind, Ms Aurelia invites pet owners to join her outside the municipal center, at 3 Primrose Street, on Tuesdays in June between 10 am and 2 pm for renewals. Dog treats will be available.

Theo is a 2- to 3-year-old neutered male pitbull currently in the care of Canine Advocates of Newtown. He is black and white and has very handsome markings. Theo was found on the side of the road this winter with a leash attached to his neck and no owner to be found. Theo had most likely been abandoned. Scared and cold, Theo was brought to the dog pound and is now able to be adopted to a warm, loving, and responsible owner. As expected, he is still nervous around people and very timid.

He and other dogs that are available for adoption are listed on CanineAdvocates.org.

Also, a rabies clinic is scheduled for June 19 from 10 am to noon in the Edmond Town Hall gymnasium. Dogs and cats must be more than 3 months old to receive shots. The cost is $20 per animal, cash only. Written proof (not tags) of prior vaccinations for rabies or a current dog license must  be presented to qualify for a three-year certificate. One year certificates will go to all others.

Dogs must be leashed and cats must be in carriers. The new 2010 dog licenses will also be on sale. Bring your spay/neuter certificate.

For more information call the town clerk’s office at 203-270-4210.