How to obtain a license for a dog or cat?

Obtaining a pet license is mandatory for all owners of cats and dogs over three months old in the city of Calgary. The license certifies that the animal is registered in the municipal system, facilitates the quick return of lost pets to their homes, and funds programs to support stray animals. Below are detailed steps and recommendations to help you obtain a license with minimal effort.

1. Check that your pet meets the requirements

• Age: A license is required for cats and dogs over three months old.
• Sterilization: if you can prove that your pet has been sterilized, you will pay a lower license fee. Proof can be a printed certificate from a veterinarian, a receipt, or other official document.
• If the animal is aggressive or has behavioral problems, you must select the appropriate type of license (behavioral or aggressive animal), which has higher fees and special conditions of keeping.

2. Prepare the necessary information and documents

To apply for a license, you will need:

• Full information about the owner (full name, address, phone number, email).
• Information about the animal: species (cat/dog), breed, age, color, sex, pregnancy or lactation, sterilization status.
• Microchip serial number (if installed).
• Documentary proof of sterilization (for a reduced rate).

Keep these documents handy, especially in electronic form — they are only needed to confirm sterilization status, but are not always requested when applying.

3. Select how you want to apply

3.1 Online via myID (recommended)

1. Go to the City of Calgary website and select Pet Licences.
2. Log in or create a myID account.
3. Fill out the online form with the owner and animal information.
4. Upload a scanned copy of the spay/neuter certificate for the reduced rate.
5. Pay for the license with a credit card.
6. Receive an electronic ticket and confirmation by email.

Advantages: automatic renewal reminders, quick registration in the system, convenient at any time of day.

3.2 In person at the Animal Services Center

• Address: 2201 Portland Street S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 4M7.
• Obtain an application form or use the self-service kiosk.
• Present the owner's documents, animal information, and proof of sterilization.
• Pay by cash, check, or card.
• Receive a plastic tag with the license number and an information booklet.

3.3 By mail

1. Download or pick up a renewal/new license form from the city website.
2. Complete the form and attach a copy of the sterilization confirmation (if required).
3. Include a check for the applicable fee.
4. Send everything to: Animal Services – Licensing 2201 Portland Street S.E. Calgary, AB T2G 4M7

• Wait for your tag and confirmation by mail within 5–10 business days.

3.4 Phone call

• Call 311 (within Calgary) or 403-268-2489.
• Provide your information, the animal's information, and pay by credit card over the phone.
• Once your application has been processed, your tag will be mailed to you within a week.

4. Payment and fees

• If the tag is lost, replacement costs $5–6 depending on the year of issue.

5. Obtaining and using the tag

• After successful registration, you will receive a plastic tag with a unique license number.
• Animals without a microchip or readable tattoo must wear the tag on their collar at all times.
• Dogs with microchips may not need to wear a tag when out for a walk, but checks may still be carried out if you move house.
• The tag helps to find the owner if the pet is lost and reduces the time the animal spends in a shelter.

6. License renewal and changes to information

• The license is valid for one calendar year until December 31.
• You can renew online or in person starting in November to avoid penalties.
• If the owner or address changes, be sure to update your information through myID or in person.
• If the animal has died or been transferred to another owner, notify Animal Services to cancel the license.

7. Penalties for not obtaining a license

• Fine: $250 for cats and dogs.
• Failure to pay or renew on time will result in additional fines and blocking of animal rescue services.

Following this procedure will help cat and dog owners quickly and easily license their pets, receive all the benefits of the city's responsible pet ownership program, and avoid fines.