Dog Licenses in California
If you own a dog in California, state and county laws demand that you have a license for the dog showing it has an up-to-date rabies vaccination. Staying compliant with these laws will help protect you from financial penalties and help protect your dog from being destroyed if he or she bites someone.
Very few people expect their dogs to bite anyone. Dog bites are generally part of the dog’s natural reaction to overactive play or surprise attention. Even the most gentle dog can be provoked into snapping or biting.
Dog bite victims are more likely to pursue legal action if the dog doesn’t have an up-to-date rabies vaccination. Because there is no way to test for rabies in a live animal, a dog bite can lead to a court order to destroy the animal for a definitive rabies diagnosis.
Courts also favor pet owners who license their dogs. Licensing your pet shows that you respect the law. When a judge is reviewing a dog bite case, he or she will review several factors (including licensing) before deciding on both the fate of the dog and any financial penalties you might face.
Lastly, state and local licensing is part of the integrated tracking and delivery system for lost animals. When you license your dog, you are more likely to have your pet returned if lost.
