Amnesty for unlicensed Valley pets is on through April 30

Published 2:40 pm Friday, April 12, 2013

Regional Animal Services of King County has established a pet amnesty period, now through April 30, for unlicensed cats and dogs and those whose licenses have expired.

During April, pet owners can bring their expired pet licenses up to date or purchase new tags for currently unlicensed pets without facing late fees or other penalties. Outside of the amnesty period, pet owners who are not in compliance could be subject to fines of $125 for a spayed/neutered pet to $250 for an unaltered pet.

All dogs and cats that are 8 weeks of age or older in service-contracting cities, such as Snoqualmie and North Bend, and in unincorporated King County must be licensed. Indoor-only cats and pets confined to fenced yards are also required to have licenses, allowing them a better chance of return in case they get away from home.

License fees range from $15 to $60. Service animals are licensed at no charge.

Licenses for dogs and cats under 6 months (6-month expiration) are $15.

Pet licenses may be purchased or renewed on the King County website at www.kingcounty.gov/pets. They’re also available at Snoqualmie City Hall, 38624 S.E. River St., and Sno-Falls Licensing at Sno-Falls Credit Union, 9025 Meadowbrook Way S.E.