San Diego Humane Society pet licensing
Why license?
In accordance with state and local laws, pet licenses are mandatory in the cities that San Diego Humane Society serves. In fact, licenses are mandatory in nearly every community across North America. Why? Because licenses help keep pets and the communities they live in safe. DocuPet was brought on board to simplify and improve pet licensing to benefit not only pet owners like you, but the entire community. DocuPet makes it easy for the San Diego Humane Society to deliver a successful pet licensing program with a streamlined software and management solution that makes licensing a breeze for pet owners and administrators alike.
What will you need?
Licensing your pet will require specific information and proof. Having these items at the ready allows for the fastest experience. You have the option to upload a document as a saved or scanned file, or you may take a photo directly from your device on our upload page.
Payment
We securely process payment online and accept all major credit and debit cards as forms of payment.
Documents
Rabies vaccination proof
This document serves as a formal proof that your pet has received a California approved rabies vaccine. A valid Rabies Certificate holds the following information:
- Owners Information
- Dogs Information
- Bottle Serial/LOT Number, Expiration date, Product used, and Manufacturer
- Vet Information, Clinic, License number and signature
Invoices, Sticker Books and Titers are not accepted.
How to license
Online
The fastest and easiest way to license or renew is right here. You'll create a profile for your pet, upload any necessary documents, process your license registration, and receive purchase confirmations via email. Payment can be made using a credit card or Visa/Mastercard debit card. Each year, you just need to log in to your existing account and renew - it's super easy!
License a pet for the first time
I've never licensed a pet with San Diego Humane Society before.
License nowIn-person
In person licensing is available at the following location(s) however it's important to know you will still receive your tag in the mail:
Don't forget to check hours of operation, appointment policies, and accepted payment methods prior to heading out.
San Diego Campus
5480 Gaines St., San Diego, CA 92110
El Cajon Campus
1373 N. Marshall Ave., El Cajon, CA 92020
Escondido Campus
3500 Burnet Drive, Escondido, CA 92027
Oceanside Campus
2905 San Luis Rey Road, Oceanside, CA 92058
If you opt to license via snail mail - keep in mind processing your registration will take a lot longer!
Make sure you complete the below form in full and that it is free of any errors otherwise your registration may not be successfully processed. The fine print is there for a reason so keep an eye out for accepted payment methods, who the check should be made out to, where it should be mailed, and any required supporting documentation.
Pet license form (English)
- Download the Carlsbad application form
- Download the Del Mar application form
- Download the El Cajon application form
- Download the Encinitas application form
- Download the Escondido application form
- Download the La Mesa application form
- Download the Oceanside application form
- Download the Poway application form
- Download the San Diego application form
- Download the San Marcos application form
- Download the Santee application form
- Download the Solana Beach application form
- Download the Vista application form
- Download the Imperial Beach application form
Formulario de licencia para mascotas (Español)
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Carlsbad
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Del Mar
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de El Cajon
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Encinitas
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Escondido
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de La Mesa
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Oceanside
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Poway
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de San Diego
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de San Marcos
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Santee
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Solana Beach
- Descargar formulario de solicitud de Vista
Phone
If you're unable to complete your pet's license online, you can contact our Customer Care team for assistance. Please note that licenses are primarily designed to be completed online, and phone support is intended for troubleshooting or special circumstances.
You must have up-to-date rabies documentation on file. We can accept credit cards and Visa/Mastercard debit cards for payment.
DocuPet Customer Care: 1-877-239-6072
Hours of Operation:Monday-Saturday: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM PDT (excluding holidays)Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM PDT
License fees & details
San Diego Humane Society is contracted to issue licenses in the following communities
Carlsbad Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Carlsbad. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Del Mar Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Del Mar. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
El Cajon Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of El Cajon. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Encinitas Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Encinitas. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Escondido Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Escondido. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
La Mesa Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of La Mesa. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Oceanside Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Oceanside. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Poway Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Poway. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
City of San Diego Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of San Diego. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
San Marcos Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of San Marcos. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Santee Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Santee. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Solana Beach Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Solana Beach. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Vista Fees & Details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Vista. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement tag is available for a $15.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Imperial Beach Details & Fees
Pet licenses are required for all dogs living in the City of Imperial Beach. Licenses are available for 1, 2, or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Fee | 2 Year Fee | 3 Year Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altered Dog | $20.00 | $35.00 | $50.00 |
| Unaltered Dog | $60.00 | $100.00 | $150.00 |
- A replacement City of Imperial Beach tag is available for a $15 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- All licenses expire the day they were purchased, 1, 2, or 3 years in the future depending on the term of the license purchased, so long as the rabies vaccination remains valid for the duration of the chosen license. If your pet’s rabies vaccination expires prior to the selected license term, the license will expire on the rabies vaccination expiration date.
- Service animal licenses are available for $0.00. When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.
- A late fee of $25 will apply 90 days following license expiration.
- Licenses are required for all dogs over 4 months of age.
Frequently asked questions
PROGRAM AND PARTNERSHIP
What if I have a question about the DocuPet system?
DocuPet has a Help Center that houses many helpful articles about the DocuPet system, communications, and other information that is not specific to your licensing jurisdiction. Visit the Help Center Here.
Why does the system say my address is not valid?
You may have entered your address incorrectly or we may not have your address in the address database for your community. Please double-check all spelling and ensure you are using the abbreviated form for your street type ex. St instead of Street. You may contact San Diego Humane Society directly if you believe you reside within their jurisdiction but your address is not being accepted by the system.
LICENSING OPTIONS, DATES, AND LOCATIONS
What jurisdictions does San Diego Humane Society provide licensing services for?
San Diego Humane Society provides licensing services for the following areas: Carlsbad, Del Mar, El Cajon, Encinitas, Escondido, Imperial Beach, La Mesa, Oceanside, Poway, San Diego, San Marcos, Santee, Solana Beach, and Vista.
How old does my pet need to be for me to license them?
All pets over the age of 4 months are required to be licensed.
When does my pet's temporary license expire?
Temporary licenses expire after 60 days. To convert a temporary license into a full license you must provide new proof of rabies expiration prior to the temporary license expiration date. If the rabies expiration date extends beyond the original term selected, your pet's license may be extended to the full term originally selected. If the newly provided rabies expiration date falls prior to the term end, the new license expiration date will be the same as the rabies vaccination expiration date.
I need a kennel license, what do I do?
Please visit San Diego Humane Society in person as kennel licensing is not processed through DocuPet. They are located at 5480 Gaines St. in San Diego.
Why does my pet's license expire on their rabies vaccination expiration date?
As per California State law, a pet license may not be valid at anytime a pet's rabies vaccination is expired.
When does my pet's license expire?
Licenses expire at the end of the license term selected unless your pet's current rabies vaccination expiration date falls prior to the end of the term. A license cannot be valid at any time a pet's rabies is expired. If you provide new proof of rabies expiration extending beyond the original term selected prior to the license expiration date, your pet's license may be extended to the full term originally selected.
Where can I license in person?
You may license in person at San Diego Humane Society located at 5480 Gaines St. in San Diego.
How can I license my pets?
Please ensure you have all the required documentation in order to license your pet. If you have all the records you need to proceed you can license your pet online, or in person at San Diego Humane Society located at 5480 Gaines St. in San Diego.
If this is your first time licensing a pet with San Diego Humane Society, click here to learn more.
If you already have an account with us or have ever licensed a pet with San Diego Humane Society, click here to learn more.
FEES AND FINES
Can I receive a seniors discount?
There are no senior rates to license your pet.
What is the fine for not licensing a pet?
The fine for failing to license a pet varies. A pet owner can be cited for failure to display and for not having a license.
My pet qualifies for the service animal rate. What do I do?
Please visit San Diego Humane Society in person if you are qualifying for this rate for the first time. Once the team there verifies your designation you will be able to renew online in future years.
My pet has been spayed/neutered since I last purchased their pet license. How do I qualify for the discounted rate?
If your community requires proof of spay/neuter for your pet in order to receive a discounted licensing rate, you will need to upload the appropriate documentation stating that your pet has been spayed/neutered to your online account. Once the documentation has been approved by San Diego Humane Society, you will be eligible to receive the new discounted rate. Otherwise, you can visit San Diego Humane Society in person at 5480 Gaines St. in San Diego and show proof of spay/neuter there.
Why am I being charged a late fee?
Late fees come into effect if a license is not renewed within 90 days of the original expiration date.
What is the processing fee?
A processing fee of $2.00 per license product applies to all online orders.
Is there a discount for licensing multiple pets?
No, there is no discount for licensing multiple pets. Each pet will be charged the appropriate licensing fee.
My pet has been designated as a dangerous dog and needs to pay a special rate. What do I do?
Please visit San Diego Humane Society in person if you are qualifying for this rate for the first time. They are located at 5480 Gaines St. in San Diego. Once the team there verifies your designation you will be able to renew online in future years.
ACCOUNT UPDATES
Does my license transfer if I am moving?
If you are moving, please be sure to update your address by logging into your online account and navigating to your Profile Settings page. Even though you are moving, you’ll still be able to keep your pet's tag and access your pet's online account. However, your current license may not be valid in the new community you are moving to. Please get in touch with the pet licensing provider in the new community you are moving to in order to find out more information.
TAGS
How do I receive my tag if I don't have a current address?
Please visit in person at San Diego Humane Society located at 5480 Gaines St. in San Diego and they will be able to assist you.
CITY INFORMATION AND CITY ORDINANCES
What species are required to be licensed?
Dogs are required to be licensed in all jurisdictions San Diego Humane Society serves.
Where can I find information about the pet licensing ordinance/bylaw?
Visit this page for information on licensing ordinances/bylaws: sdhumane.org/services/humane-law-enforcement/
Who do I call if there’s an emergency involving dogs? (dog attack, loose dog, etc.)
Please get in touch with San Diego Humane Society at (619) 299-7012
DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
What are acceptable documentation types?
A rabies proof is required to prove that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies. This document must be an actual certificate - not a receipt or rabies tag.
Where can I obtain a copy of my pet’s rabies or spay/neuter document?
If you can’t locate the document you received after the procedure was done, you will need to contact your vet to obtain your pet's records. Be sure to specify any and all pets you require documentation for.
Once you’ve got the paperwork in your hands, take a look to ensure:
- The document provided is the right type of proof required.
- Pet and pet owner account data matches your own.
- The document is clear and legible.
I just adopted my pet, but the information on the rabies vaccination certificate does not match my information. What should I do?
If the rabies vaccination certificate does not match your information because the pet was adopted, we recommend contacting San Diego Humane Society directly so their team can review and approve the documentation. We suggest reaching out to confirm that you have all required documentation, which may include adoption paperwork, in order to license your pet.
What documentation is required to purchase a license?
A valid rabies proof is required to purchase a pet license. A 60 day temporary license may be issued if you do not have rabies proof at the time of licensing. Proof of spay/neuter is required to receive the discounted altered rates.
Can I still license my pet if I don’t have the required documentation?
Yes! A temporary license can be issued while you gather your documents. Just follow one of the licensing methods listed above to get started. Please note that proof must be submitted before the temporary license expires, otherwise a new license will need to be purchased.
Why do I have to upload a rabies document for my pet?
To license your pet, you will be required to show proof that the pet's rabies vaccination is current. Requiring documentation ensures that provided pet information is accurate, which is critical for identification and safety reasons.
My pet is rabies exempt, what do I do?
You will need to complete the required paperwork and visit San Diego Humane Society in person to qualify for rabies exemption.
How long does it take for my pet’s documents to be reviewed?
Documentation uploaded via the online system is reviewed within two to three business days.