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1. I live in the country, do I still have to license my dog?

Yes, dog licensing and rabies vaccinations are required by the California Health and Safety Code as well as County Ordinance. Dog licenses are required regardless of where you live.

2. How many dogs or cats can I have?

Each household may only have four (4) dogs or cats over the age of four months. If you have five (5) or more you are required to obtain a special permit. The number of animals vary by jurisdiction. Check with your local agency.

3. Why do I have to pay to leave my animal at the shelter?

State law requires that we hold the animal at least five (5) days to afford it a chance for the owner to reclaim the animal or have it adopted. The fee covers County costs.

4. My Neighbor's dog barks constantly. What should I do?

Contact our office and schedule an appointment with an Animal Control Officer. They will explain the complaint process and discuss options with you. Sometimes the problem can be resolved with a visit from us.

5. Can I call in a complaint and remain anonymous?

Anonymous complaints are handled as work load and time allows. We would much rather keep your information confidential and resolve the problem. Contact information is never shared with the animal owner. However, if the complaint results in a criminal complaint being filed you may be called to testify.

6. My dog bit someone. What should I do?

Contact you local Animal Control Agency right away. A report must be taken and the bite incident documented. It’s important to make sure your animal is confined and you have your most rabies vaccination certificate available. The investigating officer will request any additional information needed.

7. Why do I have to pay a license penalty when I never received a reminder?

Reminders are sent out to County dog owners as a courtesy. The owner is responsible for making sure all vaccinations and the license are kept current.

8. How long is my pets rabies shot good for?

Under normal circumstances the first rabies vaccination your pet is given remains current for one year. This is regardless of the animal’s age. The second vaccination will remain current for three years. If you have questions concerning your pet’s rabies vaccination status please consult with your veterinarian.

9. I've moved here from another State. Will I have to give my pet a new rabies shot?

Possibly - each State establishes their own rabies control programs, which include vaccination interval and specific vaccine use. Your local veterinarian can determine if the vaccine you pet was given was approved for California. An approved vaccine list is available from the California Department of Food & Agriculture Animal Health Division. Read more...

10. Why won't Animal Control Staff give me advice on animal health or vaccinations?

Although the animal control staff is very knowledgeable on animal health issues and vaccination protocols, we are not licensed veterinarians. The health of your pet is important; treatment based on a conversation without proper medical diagnosis can be dangerous. Only a Licensed Veterinarian working cooperatively with the owner can determine what is best for a pet.

11. My animal was picked up running loose. Why do I have to pay to get them out of the shelter?

When Animal is impounded by an agency, it is done so for the animal’s protection and public safety. With very few exceptions, the reason for the animal being in an Animal Control Facility is owner related. The owner bears a portion of the cost for the impounding, housing and medical treatment of their animal.

12. Why can't I tie up my dog?

Current state law allows a dog owner to tie their dog to a fixed object for up to 3 hours. The law also specifies that if a dog is tied for more than 3 hours, it must be on a cable runner to allow the animal free movement. There can be severe consequences and fine for not following the “Tethering Law”. If you have questions about how to properly confine your animal please contact us. Contact us