SEQUIM — To encourage more dog licensing in Sequim and Clallam County, the City Council has approved dropping a requirement for a proof of rabies vaccination.
That brings the city of Sequim into line with the county and the city of Port Angeles, placing dog licensing under the county jurisdiction.
The council voted 6-0 in favor of joining the county and Port Angeles, with Mayor Ken Hays excused to attend to a family matter.
“Other jurisdictions have removed that requirement to get people to buy licenses,” City Attorney Craig Ritchie told the council, referring to the proof of rabies vaccination requirement.
The action was a precursor to the city entering into an interlocal agreement with the county for dog licensing, which is conducted by the Olympic Peninsula Humane Society in Port Angeles.
The Humane Society maintains the records.
“It think this will be great, especially if it encourages more licenses,” said Deputy Mayor Laura Dubois.
The universal license allows dog owners to buy one license throughout the county.
The Humane Society already retains proceeds from city of Sequim license sales.
Pet owners will be allowed to renew in person, by mail or online.
Pet licenses are $10 a year for a spayed or neutered dog or cat, $55 annually for an unaltered animal and $50 for a lifetime license.
Cat licensing is voluntary in the city of Sequim, staff said.
Revenues from licensing will be minimal, staff said, with the licenses intended to assist in the return of lost animals, not generate revenue.
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Sequim-Dungeness Valley Editor Jeff Chew can be reached at 360-681-2391 or at jeff.chew@peninsuladailynews.com.
