FAQ's for Dog Licenses
All dogs over 6 months old residing in the Town of South Hadley must be licensed annually.
2. When do I license my dog?
Current licenses expire on March 31. The Clerk's Office begins issuing new licenses in January because reminders are included with the census. You may use the form on the census to license your dog. You must register a new dog within 30 days of receipt.
3. What do I need to bring with me to license my dog?
Proof of up-to-date rabies shots from your veterinarian is required for a license to be issued.
4. What is the fee to license my dog?
- Spayed or neutered: $15.00
- Unspayed/Unneutered: $20.00
After March 31st there is a $5.00 late fee added, unless you are registering the dog for the first time.
5. Is my dog a service dog?
A service dog is defined under the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. The work or task performed by a service animal must be directly related to a handler’s disability. A dog whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support does not qualify as a service animal.
6. How do I register my dog?
- Online: Click here to register your dog online.
- By Mail: You may license your dog by mail by sending the appropriate fee, see license fees, with a copy of the current rabies certificate from your veterinarian. Please send a self-addressed stamped envelope for us to send you your dog's license. Please note: self addressed stamped envelopes now require 2 stamps.
- In Person: You may register your dog in person by visiting the Town Clerk's Office during our office hours. Please remember to bring an updated copy of your dog's rabies certificate, as well as cash or check for the fee.
Take the PUP (Pick up Poop) Pledge!
Did you know that there are about 47,000 dogs in the Pioneer Valley, and that together, they produce about 17.5 tons of animal waste a day?
Dog waste does not act as an effective fertilizer. Stormwater runoff can wash dog waste into ponds, lakes, streams and drinking water supplies, causing outbreaks of E. coli and other bacteria harmful to both people and wildlife. It can contaminate parks, athletic fields and places where children play.
We all need to pick up and properly dispose of our pet’s waste in the trash can. Join all the dog owners in your neighborhood who are showing they care and take the PUP (Pick up Poop) Pledge at: www.thinkblueconnecticutriver.org/pup-pledge-form/