Licensing Your Dog Matters

Dear Ausable Residents,

As a fellow dog lover, I want to take a moment to talk about something important for our furry friends and our community: dog licensing. If you own a dog, licensing them isn’t just a box to check—it’s a vital step to keep our pets safe, our town orderly, and our community thriving. Here’s why it matters and what happens if you skip it.

Why License Your Dog?

In the Town of Ausable, every dog over 4 months old must be licensed annually, as required by New York State’s Agriculture and Markets Law § 109 and our local Town Code. Here’s why this rule is so important:

1. Safety First: Protecting Your Dog and Others
   A dog license ensures your pet is linked to you through a unique ID tag. If your dog wanders off (we all know how adventurous they can be!), the license helps our Dog Control Officer (DCO) or neighbors return them home quickly. Without a license, a lost dog may end up a the shelter, currently White Knight Kennels in Chazy, NY, facing uncertainty or even adoption to a new home.
2. Rabies Control: A Public Health Must
   Licensing requires proof of a current rabies vaccination, which is non-negotiable under state law. Rabies is a deadly disease that can spread to other animals and even humans. By licensing your dog, you’re confirming they’re vaccinated, keeping Ausable’s pets, wildlife, and residents safe. Plus, Clinton County offers free rabies clinics—check with the Health Department at (518) 565-4870 for the next one!
3. Supporting Our Community
   License fees (just $10 for spayed/neutered dogs, $20 for unaltered ones) help fund our DCO’s work, from rescuing strays to handling complaints. This keeps our streets safe and our neighborhoods peaceful. It’s a small price to pay for a big impact!
4. Legal Responsibility
   Licensing shows you’re a responsible pet owner following state and local laws. It’s a simple way to avoid trouble and show pride in being part of Ausable’s community.

What Happens If You Don’t License Your Dog?

Skipping the license isn’t just a minor oversight—it can lead to real consequences for you and your dog. Here’s what you risk:

1. Fines and Fees
   Failing to license your dog is a violation of state law, with fines up to $250 per offense. If your unlicensed dog is picked up as a stray, you’ll also face impoundment fees (starting at $25/day) to get them back from the shelter, plus the cost of licensing and any required vaccinations. These costs add up fast!
2. Impoundment and Loss of Your Pet
   Unlicensed dogs found running at large (off your property without a leash) can be seized by our DCO. They’ll be held at the White Knight Kennels facility for 5-7 days. If unclaimed, your dog could be adopted out or, in rare cases, euthanized. Licensing ensures your dog has ID to get back to you quickly.
3. Legal Trouble
   If your unlicensed dog causes trouble—like barking excessively, chasing livestock, or biting someone—the consequences escalate. You could face higher fines, court appearance tickets, or even liability for damages. In severe cases (e.g., a dangerous dog incident), fines can reach $1,000, and the dog may be deemed “dangerous” or “vicious,” requiring strict controls or even euthanasia.
4. Community Impact
   Unlicensed dogs make it harder for our DCO to manage strays and nuisances, straining town resources. This can lead to more complaints, less peace, and a less pet-friendly Ausable for everyone.

How to License Your Dog—It’s Easy!

Getting your dog licensed is simple and affordable:

• Visit the Town Clerk: Stop by Town Hall at 111 Ausable Street, Keeseville, NY 12944, or call (518) 834-9035. Hours: M,W,TH, 9am-2pm
• What You Need: Proof of current rabies vaccination (from a licensed vet) and, if applicable, proof of spaying/neutering. Download the form at townofausableny.gov.
• Fees: $10 for spayed/neutered dogs, $20 for unaltered dogs (includes a state surcharge).
• Renew Annually: Licenses expire with your dog’s rabies vaccination cycle—mark your calendar to renew on time!

Let’s Keep Ausable Pet-Friendly!

Licensing your dog is more than a rule—it’s a commitment to keeping our town safe, healthy, and welcoming for all. Whether it’s preventing a lost pup from a long shelter stay or ensuring our kids and neighbors feel secure, your small action makes a big difference.

If you have questions or need help, reach out to our Town Clerk at (518) 834-9035 or the DCO at 518-310-2702.

Let’s work together to make Ausable a great place for our four-legged friends and their humans. License your dog today—it’s a small step for a big wag!

Warm regards,
-Tim

P.S. Check out townofausableny.gov/departments/dog-control/ for more info, and let’s keep our tails wagging responsibly!