2021 dog licenses now on sale

December 10, 2020 1:30 am
San Juan County/Contributed photo 2021 Celebrity Canine Little Bit, receiving the first tag dressed as a snow monster.
San Juan County/Contributed photo 2021 Celebrity Canine Little Bit, receiving the first tag dressed as a snow monster.

Submitted by San Juan County

The dog licensing season has begun! It was difficult to name just one celebrity dog this year, with so many of our canine companions providing much needed support for their owners and friends. The honor went to Little Bit, an 8-year-old mixed breed who comes to work with owner, Robin Garcia, every day. In recognition for her service, Little Bit received the first 2021 dog tag. In her acceptance speech, Little Bit encouraged all San Juan County dogs to get their new tags.

All dogs in San Juan County are required to be licensed annually. Current fees are $15 for dogs that are spayed or neutered and $40 for “natural” canines. A late fee of $10 applies to licenses purchased after March 31, 2021. Add a photo of your dog for an additional $5, which will display on the county website if the dog’s license number is looked up. This additional measure of security adds priceless peace of mind if a dog is lost.

Little Bit, an 8-year old mixed breed, was adopted from the Animal Protection Society in Friday Harbor in May 2020. She spent the start of her new life in lockdown with her owner. When it was safe for Robin to return to the office in her role as a San Juan County Payroll Deputy, Little Bit came along also. Little Bit and Robin are affectionately known as “Bat Dog and Robin” because of Little Bit’s distinctive ears. Little Bit and Robin are a perfect example of rescuing each other, and Robin is thankful every day for her canine companion. Thank you to all the superhero dogs in San Juan County who provided wags, kisses and happiness in 2020.

Dog licensing fees fund both the licensing program and an account that compensates residents for livestock killed or injured by stray dangerous dogs. The balance of collected fees is distributed to the local Animal Protection Societies for impound services.

Dog licenses are available at a variety of San Juan County locations. If you live on San Juan Island, get your tag at the San Juan County Auditor’s office or the Animal Protection Society Friday Harbor. Orcas Island residents can get a tag at Pawki’s, Eastsound Kennels or Orcas Animal Protection Society. Lopez Island residents can visit Sunset Builders Supply, Lopez Animal Protection Society or Ark Veterinary Clinic.