It is not too late to license your dog(s)

February 5, 2021

For more information contact: Liam Hughes at: Liam.Hughes@maine.gov

AUGUSTA - Governor Janet Mills has signed Executive Order 29 FY 20/21, allowing dog owners extra time to license their animals. Owners now have until June 2, 2021, to renew overdue dog licenses. Licenses are available online and pet owners are strongly encouraged to renew license(s) before June 2 to avoid late fees. Veterinarian-administered rabies vaccinations and immunizations are required to be kept current. A rabies certificate is required when applying for a license.

Why was this Executive Order necessary?

  • Dogs traditionally must be vaccinated and registered within their municipalities by the end of the calendar year.
  • At the start of the pandemic, many licensing requirements were temporarily suspended, including dog licensing.
  • With municipalities now operating at near pre-pandemic hours and in the interest of animal health, the licensure requirement has been reinstated.
  • Pet owners with overdue licenses have until June 2, 2021, to renew dog licenses.
  • Learn more about dog licenses, including fees, animal welfare and other important topics by visiting Maine's Dog Licensing Online Purchasing & Renewal webpage.

About the Maine Animal Welfare Program

The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Office of Animal Welfare program is committed to humane and proper treatment of animals by developing, implementing and administering comprehensive programs that uphold the animal welfare laws of Maine through communication, education and enforcement. (Learn More)