Never Forget to Renew Your Dog License Again!

It's January, and dog license renewals are due. With all the holiday hustle bustle, it's easy to forget to write and mail that check, isn't it? What if we told you there's a way to never have to remember to renew your dog's license again?

Pennsylvania State Law requires all dogs over 12 weeks of age to be licensed (they do routine door-to-door visits to check compliance, too - violators are fined $300 per unlicensed dog). A standard license is renewed annually, and is valid from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. However, microchipped dogs are eligible for a Lifetime Dog License - pay once, and never worry about it again!

How do I get a Lifetime Dog License?

If your dog is already microchipped:

1. Using a universal microchip scanner, we will scan and verify your dog's unique microchip ID number.
2. ​We complete the Permanent Identification Verification Form (PIVF).
3. You sign the PIVF and send it, the completed Lifetime License Application, and payment to the County Treasurer within 30 days.

If your dog does not have a microchip:

1. Schedule an appointment for a microchip placement. Sedation is not necessary, as the implant causes only about as much discomfort as a vaccine. We can place a microchip at nearly any visit, even during surgical procedures.
2. After scanning your dog to be sure that an unknown microchip is not already present, we will use a needle to place an RFID chip under the skin between your dog's shoulder blades. Don't worry, there aren't many nerve endings there, and the chip is specially designed to keep itself in place!
3. Complete and send paperwork (steps 2 & 3 above).

How much does a Lifetime License cost?

​Current PA Lifetime Dog License Fees:

• $31.50: Spayed/Neutered (must include verification of alteration from veterinarian)
• $51.50: Intact Males & Females

Discounts are available for Senior Citizens (age 65+) and people with disabilities:

• $21.50: Spayed/Neutered (must include verification of alteration from veterinarian)
• $31.50: Intact Males & Females

How much does a microchip cost?

A Home Again Microchip Placement is $49 in addition to your dog's visit (varies by appointment type). This includes the cost of the microchip and the implant procedure, lifetime registration in the searchable microchip database, and a complimentary one-year membership to Home Again's premium services.

There is no cost to scan an existing microchip, but please call ahead to arrange a time to come in so that we can be ready for you!

Where can I find the Lifetime Dog License form for my county?

Right here! Click on your county to access and print the PDF:
Allegheny County Lifetime Dog License Application

• Mail to: Mr. John K. Weinstein, Treasurer, 106 Courthouse/436 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219-2497

Butler County Lifetime Dog License Application

• Mail to: Ms. Diane R. Marburger, Treasurer, Box 1208, Gov't Center, 124 W. Diamond Street, Butler, PA 16003

Beaver County Lifetime Dog License Application

• Mail to: Ms. Connie Tuccinard Javens, Treasurer, 810 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009

City of Pittsburgh Dog License Application

• Mail to: Treasurer, City of Pittsburgh, Pet License Department/414 Grant Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219-2476

Note: The City of Pittsburgh has a separate licensing system that does not include the Lifetime Dog License. You can, however, choose to pay 1, 3, or 12 years at a time.