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The Grand Island town clerk's office reports that, under New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, Article 7, it is mandatory for all dogs over the age of four months to be licensed and have current rabies shots in the state of New York.
The dog control officers enforce the law, to protect the public and to help dog owners and the community at large. They assist residents who have dog welfare concerns or complaints, as well as identify and return lost dogs to their owners.
When a dog bite occurs, it is necessary to immediately determine whether a dog has a current rabies vaccination to avoid the costly and uncomfortable rabies shots for the victims.
Additionally, it is very difficult to identify and return a loose dog if it is unlicensed. The dog has to be taken to the kennel and if the owner claims the dog, he or she has to pay a minimum of $25 per night. If the owner doesn't claim the dog within seven days, the dog is transferred to the SPCA. If the SPCA can't adopt the dog out, it might be euthanized.
The clerk's office says it only takes a few minutes and costs $8 annually for a spayed/neutered dog. (Much less than the cost to claim your impounded dog.) Stop in at the town clerk's office or contact Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel at 716-773-9600, ext. 600, for more information on licensing.