Pasco County now requires anyone who owns or cares for a cat 4-months of age or older to obtain a cat license and to have their pet vaccinated against rabies.  The Pasco County Board of County Commissioners approved mandatory cat licensing in October, 2016.  As a convenience to Pasco residents, one and three-year cat licenses are available, depending on the rabies vaccine expiration date.

A cat license can help identify and protect lost pets.  Even indoor cats can escape and become lost.  A Pasco County cat license also provides the following benefits:

• A license is the difference between a pet and a stray cat
• When licensed, found pets can be quickly reunited with their owner
• A license is proof that a pet is vaccinated against rabies
• License fees support the return of lost pets and help in the adoption of homeless pets
• Pet licenses also fund animal neglect/cruelty services, spay/neuter programs and community education services

Residents can obtain a pet license through Pasco County Animal Services by mail, in person, at the Hudson Library or through the veterinarian administering the rabies vaccine.  A valid rabies certificate and proof of spay/neuter, if applicable, is required to purchase a license.  Cost of cat licenses are as follows:

One year (sterilized):  $5.00              Three year (sterilized):  $12.00

One year (intact):      $15.00              Three year (intact):        $40.00

The Pasco County Animal Services Department is dedicated to promoting and protecting the health, safety and welfare of animals and people.  Visit the Pasco County Animal Services Adoption Center at 19640 Dogpatch Lane, Land O’ Lakes, Florida.  We’re open Tuesday through Saturday, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.  For more information, including volunteer opportunities, please visit our website at: www.pascocountyfl.net/PAS.