Washington County Animal Services launches modernized dog licensing system

Dog licensing in Washington County just got a major upgrade. Washington County Animal Services is partnering with DocuPet, North America’s leading pet registration and lost pet recovery service, to provide residents with a better licensing experience. Dog owners should expect an email or letter from DocuPet on or around September 15 about this new partnership.

A key advantage of DocuPet is its HomeSafe® 24/7 lost pet service. Every license includes a unique DocuPet tag linked to a secure online pet profile. If a pet goes missing, finders can quickly reference the code to connect with DocuPet’s dispatch team, who works around the clock to reunite pets with their families. Dog owners also have the option of personalizing their pet’s tag, a feature not previously available.

“This new modernized platform makes licensing easier for dog owners while providing added protection for their pets,” said Animal Services Manager Randy Covey. “With DocuPet, the whole system is more efficient. We’ll be able to get lost dogs home faster, dog owners will save money by avoiding impound and boarding fees, and our staff will be able to dedicate more time and resources to other critical animal welfare needs.”

All dogs in Washington County must be licensed. Those that aren’t licensed are subject to a $160 citation. Discounts are offered for multiyear licenses, spayed or neutered dogs, and owners aged 65 and older of spayed or neutered dogs. Proof of a current rabies vaccination is required for the license to be valid.

Licensing not only helps lost pets get back home, but money collected from licensing helps Washington County provide important services for animals in the county. These include investigating animal neglect and abuse cases, responding to dog bites, picking up stray and injured pets, and more.

“Pet owners who renew their previously expired dog license before the end of October will not be charged a late fee,” Covey said. “A rare, one-time opportunity to save money!”

More information and a link to the DocuPet platform are available at www.WashingtonCountyDogLicense.com.

Washington County Animal Services and the Bonnie Hays Animal Shelter are located at 1901 SE 24th Avenue in Hillsboro, next to Lowe's and Home Depot.