License Your Dog

Securing a license for your dog is an important initial step in guaranteeing the well-being and security of your furry friend. The law mandates that all dogs that are four months or older must be licensed, which serves as a means of identification for your beloved pet. By obtaining a license for your dog, you communicate to others that your pet is a cherished member of your family. It is crucial to note that failing to license your pet could result in a $251 citation.

Why Your Dog's License Should Be Your Priority

If your dog gets lost, a license tag on your dog's collar is one of the fastest methods to reunite you and your dog. Docupet’s 24/7 Lost Pet Service is included with your Stanislaus Animal Services Agency license tag and can help get your pet home should they wander off without you.

Licensing lets people know that your dog companion has received required vaccinations that protect your dog from rabies.

Your dog's license shows that you are a responsible dog owner. When you walk your dog, people will notice the license on your dog's collar and know that you really care about your dog's welfare.

Purchase A Dog License

Length of the License:

Licenses may be purchased for one, two or three year periods, provided that the rabies vaccination is valid for the same period. The dog license expiration MAY NOT exceed the rabies vaccination expiration.

A dog license with proof of a current rabies vaccination, may be purchased by mail or at the following location:

Stanislaus Animal Services Agency
3647 Cornucopia Way
Modesto, CA 95358
209-558-PETS

License Application Form

OR ONLINE by following the link below:

PURCHASE or RENEW your DOG LICENSE

Dog Licensing Fees

License Fees Are Not Refundable

Dog License Type Fee: 1 Year Fee: 2 Year Fee: 3 Year
Spayed/Neutered $12.00 $24.00 $36.00
Unaltered $150.00 $250.00 $350.00
Senior Fee: Spayed/Neutered $6.00 $12.00 $18.00
Senior Fee: Unaltered $75.00 $125.00 $175.00

Senior Citizen Discount:

Senior Citizens (age 65 or older) Receive a 50% Discount.

Girl With Puppy

Late Fee:

The late fee for a license renewal is $12.00 if paid within 30 days after the due date.

  • Licenses are not transferable - you will need to purchase a license in your own name.
  • There are limited exceptions for livestock working dogs, active AKC/UKC registered show dogs and service dogs. Contact Stanislaus Animal Services Agency for more information.
  • Cat Licenses - Although the State of California does not require that your cat be licensed, getting a license for your cat is a good idea. A lost cat with a license tag has a much better chance of being reunited with his or her owner.

Moved, Given Away or Deceased Pets:

It is important that we have your most current address, phone number and status of your pet in our system. If you move, change phone numbers or your pet has been given away or is now deceased please call DocuPet at 1-877-239-6072, emailing info@docupet.com or our office at (209) 558-7387 option 0. We will immediately update the information in your pet(s) records.

Replacement Tag:

A new tag will NOT be issued for each license renewal as your DocuPet tag and pet’s HomeSafe™ ID do not need to be updated annually. If a tag is lost, please request a free replacement tag by mail, emailing moc.tepucod@ofni, by calling DocuPet at 1-877-239-6072, or in person at:

Stanislaus Animal Services Agency
3647 Cornucopia Way
Modesto, CA 95358
(209)558-7387 option 0

If you have questions regarding your pets license contact us at moc.ytnuocnats@esnecilgodsecivreslaminasualsinats

City Limits Newman, Oakdale, Riverbank and Turlock:

Citizens living in the city limits of Newman, Oakdale, Riverbank and Turlock will need to license their dog at their local Shelter.

For the City of Newman:
Contact the Newman Police Dept.
Newman Police Department
1200 Main Street
Newman CA 95360
Phone: (209)862-2902

For the City of Turlock:
Turlock Animal Control
801 S. Walnut
Turlock CA 95380
Phone: (209) 668-5550 x6301

For the City of Riverbank / Oakdale:
Oakdale Animal Control
9800 Liberini
Oakdale CA 95361
Phone: (209) 847-5625