Licenses can be purchased online, through the mail, in person at the Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center, at your city or municipal building, or a participating veterinarian. Dogs require a license in Oakland County in the following situations:
- Acquiring a new dog
- Dog becomes four months old
- Becoming a Michigan resident
- Expiration of prior license (All licenses are valid for a calendar year and expire on 12/31)
If you are unsure if your license is still valid, check the year on your license. For example, a 2022 license would expire 12/31/2022.
In order to purchase a license, a valid rabies certificate must be presented. Dogs are required to wear the license at all times. Cats do not require a license.
Fees
Effective December 1, 2021:
- Spayed/Neutered: $15.00 (3 year license $40.00)
- Senior Citizen Price*: $14.00 (3 year license $37.00)
- Male/Female: $25.00 (3 year license $70.00)
- Senior Citizen Price*: $23.00 (3 year license $64.00)
*Senior citizen price for dog owners 65 years of age or older (must show proof of age).
This license is issued by the authority of the Oakland County Treasurer and expires 12/31 of current year.
To purchase a license through the mail, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope and rabies certificate to:
Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center
1200 N Telegraph Rd Bldg 42E
Pontiac, MI 48341
Notes
- If you have a limiting disability which may require assistance in obtaining your dog license, please contact our office.
- If this is your first time purchasing a license for your pet, make sure proof of spay/neuter is also present. Always include your current address/phone numbers so we can contact you if we find your pet.
- It is the policy of this shelter that every dog over 4 months of age being adopted leave with an Oakland County Dog License. Some cities, townships and counties will not honor this tag. Please check with your local municipality within 30 days to ensure you are adhering to local laws and ordinances.
- The State of Michigan requires all dogs over 4 months to be current with rabies vaccine and to have a Michigan dog license, failure to comply may result in a misdemeanor ticket. You may purchase a one or three calendar year dog license.
