Georgetown, Del., Feb. 25, 2013: Sussex County reminds dog owners that the deadline is near for pooches to have their permits.

Dog owners have until Friday, March 1, to obtain 2013 licenses for dogs 6 months or older. For spayed and neutered dogs, the annual cost is $10; for non-spayed and unneutered dogs, the cost is $15 yearly.

Dogs must be current on their rabies vaccinations at the time the license is obtained. Fees will be waived for seeing-eye, lead or guide dogs and those that have previously served in a branch of the U.S. military.

Licenses are available in one-, two- and three-year increments, and are valid through Dec. 31 of the expiration year. Owners who fail to comply with the County’s licensing requirements face an initial $50 fine, with a maximum fine of $100 for repeat offenses within a 12-month period.

Applications can be made online or in person. Visit sussexcountyde.gov and click on the “Buy Your Dog License Today” link on the lower right side of the main page, or stop by the County Administrative Offices building, 2 The Circle, in Georgetown, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For questions about dog control services and licensing requirements, call (302) 855-7380.

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