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Animal Control FAQ
What is a dog license and why is a dog required to wear one?
How much does a dog license cost?
For how long is a dog license valid?
Do I need a license if my dog never leaves the house or yard?
Can I apply for a dog license by mail?
How long does a rabies vaccination last?
Does my cat have to be vaccinated for rabies?
My cat never leaves the house, does it still need a rabies vaccination?
Where are the dogs kept that are picked up as stray animals?
What should I do if I find a dead animal?
Does Animal Control trap wildlife that becomes a nuisance?
What should I do if I have a wild animal in my attic or basement?
What should I do if there is a wild animal in the main part of my house (such as the living room)?
Can I trap and relocate a wild animal that is creating a nuisance in my yard?
What is a dog license and why is a dog required to wear one?
A dog license is a tag issued by the City that works as an ID for the dog and also serves to give the City a census of the number of dogs within the City of Somerville.
All dogs over six months of age are required to be licensed in the state of Massachusetts. Dog licensing is also done for the protection of the animal.
How much does a dog license cost?
$10.00 for a neutered/spayed dog.
$16.00 for a un-neutered/spayed dog.
For how long is a dog license valid?
A dog license must be renewed January 1st of each year.
Do I need a license if my dog never leaves the house or yard?
Yes. Dogs can escape or a rabid animal can enter your property.
Can I apply for a dog license by mail?
Yes. Licensing is available by mail. You must contact the Animal Control Office or the City Clerk's office and leave your name, address, and zip code. A license application will be mailed to you.You may also print an application from the City's Web site by clicking here.
How long does a rabies vaccination last?
Rabies vaccinations will vary from 1-3 years. You should contact your veterinarian to confirm the vaccination status.
Does my cat have to be vaccinated for rabies?
Yes, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires cats to be vaccinated for rabies.
My cat never leaves the house, does it still need a rabies vaccination?
Yes. There is always the chance your cat may escape from the house or an animal, such as a bat, may get into your house. Therefore, you want to have your cat protected.
Where are the dogs kept that are picked up as stray animals?
They are kept at the City's kennel located at the Department of Public Works at 1 Franey Road.
What should I do if I find a dead animal?
If the animal is on public property, dial 311 and report the location of the dead animal. A work order will be issued to the DPW and the animal will be removed as soon as possible. If the animal is on private property, a private vendor must be consulted.
Does Animal Control trap wildlife that becomes a nuisance?
No, Animal Control only rescues sick or injured animals.
We will help to evaluate wildlife nuisance concerns and offer suggestions about which course of action is best to resolve the concern.
What should I do if I have a wild animal in my attic or basement?
Animal control does not remove or trap animals that are in walls, attics, under houses, or in basements. You must call a private wildlife contractor to handle these issues.
What should I do if there is a wild animal in the main part of my house (such as the living room)?
Call Animal Control and if it is possible we will catch and remove the wild anima
Can I trap and relocate a wild animal that is creating a nuisance in my yard?
No, you cannot. It is against Massachusetts State Law to trap any healthy wild animal and take it to another location unless you are a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
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