In 2023, animal control staff at the Regional District of Central Okanagan reunited 284 lost dogs with their owners. This was due in large part to dogs being licensed, which allows staff to quickly notify the owner on file.
Got a new or previously unlicensed dog? We’ve got a dog licence deal for you! Purchase your licence for a new or previously unlicensed pet in the month of October, November or December and that licence will be good for the remainder of the year and for all of 2024.
Dog licences are $40 for dogs that are spayed or neutered and $80 for dogs that are not spayed or neutered. Licence fees help reunite dogs and owners, the care of lost dogs and public safety and awareness initiatives supporting responsible dog ownership.
The Responsible Dog Ownership Bylaw requires all dogs three months and older to be licensed. In 2023, over 21,395 were licensed in the Central Okanagan. A licence makes it easy to return a dog to its owner if it gets away and provides a one-time free ride home. There are also special discounts and services offered by participating local businesses for licensed dog owners showing their digital Dog Licence Rewards card.
To purchase a licence, visit rdco.com/dogs and click on the dog licence link to get started. Those who would rather buy their dog licence in person may visit the Regional District office in Kelowna (1450 KLO Road), the Regional Dog Pound (890 Weddell Place), BC SPCA (3785 Casorso Road) or municipal offices in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country and Peachland.
Dog owners that have moved to the Central Okanagan and have a current, valid dog licence from another local government may transfer their licence for free by visiting the RDCO office in Kelowna.
The Regional District reminds all dog owners to keep their licence up to date as there is zero tolerance and a hefty fine for unlicensed dogs. Licences are good for a calendar year and expire December 31. Dog owners whose licence expires in 2023 can renew their licence beginning December 15, 2023, either online or in-person.
For more information about dog licensing and Responsible Dog Ownership in the Central Okanagan visit rdco.com/dogs.