The cost of a dog license in Osceola County will increase starting March 1. In this Herald Review file photo, workers at the Osecola County Animal Control provide free vacinations for pet owners.
Herald Review file photoOSCEOLA COUNTY — Residents of Osceola County have until March 1 to take advantage of the current rates for dog license fees. After March 1, the rates will increase according to a news release from the treasurer’s office.
“We thought it would be best to notify the community that the rates went up and they have until March 1 to get the licenses, or they have to pay the higher fee,” treasurer Tonia Hartline told the Herald Review. “We just wanted to inform the citizens of the county so they didn’t have to pay those higher fees.”
According to the release, licenses purchased before March 1 will cost $10 for spayed/neutered dogs and $20 for fertile dogs. After March 1, the costs will increase to $20 for spayed/neutered and $30 for fertile.
The current senior citizen rate for dog owners ages 65 and older is $5 for spayed/neutered, and $20 for fertile. After March 1, no senior citizen discount rate will apply.
Michigan dog owners are required by law to acquire and pay for licenses for each of their dogs annually. Failure to meet these requirements could result in a criminal misdemeanor conviction for the dog owner.
Dog licenses can be purchased at the Osceola County treasurer’s office in the Osceola County Administration Building, 602 W. Upton Ave., Reed City; at the Osceola County Animal Control, 502 Savidge St., Reed City; at Country Veterinary Services, 11770 U.S. 10, Reed City; or from Dr. Witt, 8696 20 Mile Road, Marion.
Proof of current rabies vaccination is required at the time of purchase.
