Georgetown, Del., Feb. 24, 2014: Sussex County dogs are on a little bit of a tighter leash this year when it comes to getting their annual licenses.

Under Delaware law, all dogs 6 months or older must have a valid license issued by the county in which the animal resides on or before March 1. Since that date falls on a Saturday in 2014, Sussex County dog owners have one less day – until Friday, Feb. 28 – to make in-person applications. Online applications, however, can be made anytime and will be accepted throughout the day Saturday, March 1. Annual licenses cost $10 for spayed and neutered dogs, $15 for dogs that are not spayed or neutered.

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 do not comply with the 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 “Dog Licensing” link on the bottom left 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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