Dog and cat licensing in Guelph, Ontario

Guelph, Ontario, Canada

Guelph dogs and cats need annual licences. Dog tags must be worn at all times from four months of age. Licences last one year from purchase, rather than automatically ending with the calendar year.

Key information

Guelph dogs and cats need annual licences. Dog tags must be worn at all times from four months of age. Licences last one year from purchase, rather than automatically ending with the calendar year.

On this page

Buy, renew or request the low-income subsidy at a glance

Buy, renew or request the low-income subsidy
  1. Use DocuPet online or visit ServiceGuelph or the Guelph Humane Society

    Use DocuPet online or visit ServiceGuelph or the Guelph Humane Society. Have spay/neuter and microchip proof if relevant; kennel applications need Canadian Kennel Club registration proof.

  2. Attach the current dog identification tag

    Attach the current dog identification tag. Keep the pet and owner records current so animal control can identify the owner.

  3. For the possible 50% low-income discount

    For the possible 50% low-income discount, submit the subsidy application and required records in person, by mail or fax. Discounted licences can only be purchased at City Hall.

Sources: Dog and cat registration

Different registration rules

Different registration rules
Animal or applicantRule
Dogs 4 months and olderAnnual licence; tag attached
CatsAnnual licence
Microchipped catsLicence required; collar or tag not required
Domestic poultry keeperOne-time $25 registration for keeper
Reptile breederOne-time $25 registration for breeder

Sources: Dog and cat registration

Buy, renew or request the low-income subsidy

  1. Use DocuPet online or visit ServiceGuelph or the Guelph Humane Society. Have spay/neuter and microchip proof if relevant; kennel applications need Canadian Kennel Club registration proof.
  2. Attach the current dog identification tag. Keep the pet and owner records current so animal control can identify the owner.
  3. For the possible 50% low-income discount, submit the subsidy application and required records in person, by mail or fax. Discounted licences can only be purchased at City Hall.

Sources: Dog and cat registration

All in-person licence sellers listed by the city

ServiceGuelph

1 Carden Street, Guelph, Ontario

Licence sales and the exclusive purchase location for approved discounted licences. Accepts cash, cheque, debit, Visa and Mastercard.

Contact
519-822-1260 extension 2117

Sources: Dog and cat registration

Guelph Humane Society

190 Hanlon Creek Boulevard, Guelph, Ontario

Animal-control provider and listed licence seller. Accepts cash, cheque, debit, Visa and Mastercard.

Sources: Dog and cat registration

Sources: Dog and cat registration

Questions and answers

When does a Guelph dog need a licence?

From four months old; its tag must be attached at all times.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Does a licence expire on December 31?

No. Dog and cat licences are valid for one year from purchase.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Must a microchipped cat still be licensed?

Yes. The chip changes the collar/tag requirement, not annual licensing.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Does a microchipped cat have to wear a collar?

The city says a microchipped cat need not wear a collar or identification tag.

Source: Dog and cat registration

What records support discounted dog categories?

Bring spay/neuter and microchip evidence where applicable.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Who provides animal control?

The Guelph Humane Society.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Is there help for low-income pet owners?

An eligible applicant may receive a 50% licence subsidy, subject to the application and documents.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Can I buy a subsidized licence online?

No. The city says discounted licences can only be purchased at City Hall.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Is poultry registration charged per bird?

No. The one-time $25 registration is for the keeper.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Where are current dog-fee categories published?

In the current city User Fees Bylaw; the source directs readers to its animal-licence pages.

Source: Dog and cat registration

Sources: Dog and cat registration

Official services and applications