EBS STAFF
The City of Bozeman has launched a new online software, making it easier for pet owners to register their companions.
According to municipal code, any pet owner within city limits must annually register all dogs or cats over six months old. Before this new online system, owners had to visit the Bozeman City Hall in-person to register or renew pet licenses, and payments could be taken in-person or by mail, according to a Dec. 27 press release from the City of Bozeman.
“Our new pet licensing software makes it much easier for owners to stay in compliance with the law and to keep their licenses up to date,” Laurae Clark, city treasurer, stated in the release. “There are also tons of benefits to licensing, from keeping animals safe and healthy to managing stray populations to supporting dog waste bags in parks.”
The city finance department has also recognized a need to increase licensing fees, which had not been evaluated or changed in more than 30 years, the release added. On Dec. 12, the Bozeman City Commission approved fee increases to support software and staffing costs, and fund community pet services including animal shelters and waste bag stations.
“There are several benefits associated with licensing. First, it promotes health and safety, as proof of vaccination is required which helps prevent rabies from spreading to both pets and humans. Pets also have a better chance of returning home if lost as the license has contact information associated with it. Additionally, spaying and neutering are encouraged through the program, which helps keep stray dog/cat populations low,” the release stated.
