Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Animal Services topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Placer County adopts 50% senior discount for dog licenses
Summary
The Board of Supervisors approved a new discounted dog-licensing rate for Placer County residents age 62 and older that reduces the fee 50% for up to two altered dogs per household, staff said; the change is intended to increase licensing and help return lost pets to owners.
The Placer County Board of Supervisors on Feb. 4 adopted a resolution adding discounted dog-licensing fees for county residents ages 62 and older.
Animal Services Manager Katie Ingram told the board the department studied neighboring jurisdictions and found roughly two-thirds offered senior discounts. Ingram said the county currently returns about 36% of lost dogs to owners — above the national average — and expects lower fees for seniors to increase licensing, reduce shelter burden and improve returns of lost pets.
Under the new policy the county will offer a 50% reduced licensing fee for up to two altered dogs per household for residents age 62 and older. The discount applies only to altered (spayed/neutered) animals; Ingram said the reduction is intended to encourage spay/neuter and that the shelter offers on-site alteration for redeemed animals or referrals to local low-cost clinics for owners who cannot afford surgery. When a redeemed, unaltered dog is returned to its owner the shelter offers to alter the animal so the owner can benefit from the reduced fee going forward.
Supervisors who spoke in favor noted the county was aligning with neighboring jurisdictions and that the measure supports seniors who depend on companion animals. No members of the public spoke against the proposal during the public hearing. The board approved the resolution by voice vote.
