What documents are required to register an animal?

Registering cats and dogs in Calgary is mandatory under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw. To obtain a license without delays or fines, you must have all the necessary documents and information on hand. Below is a detailed list of requirements and recommendations for pet owners.

1. Proof of identity and address of the owner

  • Passport or photo ID (driver's license, provincial ID).
  • Proof of address in Calgary: utility bill (gas, water, electricity), bank statement, or rental agreement issued within the last 90 days.
  • Contact information: phone number, email address.

This information is used to create an owner account in the myID system and to contact you if your pet is found by Animal Services.

2. Information about the animal

  • Type (cat or dog), breed, gender, age, and coat color.
  • Microchip serial number (if installed). Microchipped animals are eligible for a license fee reduction and are not required to wear a tag at all times, but all microchip information must be included on the application.
  • Proof of spay or neuter (for reduced fee).

3. Documents confirming sterilization (if necessary)

To take advantage of the reduced rate for sterilized animals, you must provide one of the following documents within seven days of submitting your application:

  • Original or copy of the sterilization certificate issued by a veterinary clinic.
  • A receipt from the veterinarian indicating the sterilization or castration procedure performed.
  • A letter from a licensed veterinarian confirming that the animal is physically incapable of reproducing.
  • An adoption agreement from a shelter or charitable organization that includes information about sterilization.
  • Written statement from the owner, certified by Animal Services employees.

If the document is not provided within the specified time frame, the application will be considered at the higher rate for unsterilized animals.

4. License application form

To obtain a license, you must complete the appropriate application form:

  • Online form through your myID account on the city website (https://www.calgary.ca/pets/licences.html).
  • Paper application at Animal Services (2201 Portland Street S.E.) or at city municipal offices.
  • Mail-in form (available on the city website).
  • Phone order via 311 or 403-268-2489 (some information is provided verbally, the rest is sent by email).

5. License payment and confirmation

After submitting your application, you must pay the appropriate fee, which depends on the type, age, and sterilization status of the animal. Payment can be made:

  • By credit card online (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Interac).
  • By cash, check, or debit card at the Animal Services Center.
  • By check or cash by mail along with the completed application form.

After payment, you will receive confirmation by email or in the form of a plastic token containing the license number, expiration date, and contact information for customer support.

6. Additional tips and requirements

  • If you change your address or the owner of the animal, you must update the information in the system within 30 days to keep the license valid without additional fees.
  • In the event of the death of an animal or its transfer to another person, the owner must notify Animal Services to cancel the license.
  • A tag is required for cats without a microchip and for all unspayed animals. Animals with an active microchip may not wear a tag when outdoors, but the microchip information must be current in the city database.
  • It is recommended that licenses be renewed in November or December for continuous protection and to avoid fines.

With a list of required documents and a clear algorithm of actions, cat and dog owners in Calgary can quickly obtain a license, ensure the protection of their pets, and contribute to the funding of stray animal support programs. This guarantees not only the legality of keeping an animal, but also the quick return of lost pets to their owners.