08/09/2022
Everything You Need To Know About Pet Licenses in Hopewell Township
The State of New Jersey requires that all dogs ages six months or older be licensed annually, and proof of rabies vaccination is required for the license to be issued. Hopewell Township residents are required to license their cats as well.
Belinda Ogitis, the Township’s Animal Control Officer, reminds residents that if you have not yet licensed your pet, please do so as soon as possible. Municipalities require licensing for pets to ensure the health and safety of the community, as well as animals. Hopewell Township collects license fees for three main reasons: to help identify lost pets, ensure that rabies vaccinations are up-to-date, and help fund the animal shelter.
Hopewell Township’s pet licensing fees are $22.20 for your spayed or neutered dog, and $21 for spayed/neutered cats. If your animal is not spayed or neutered, the fee is $3 more. Pet owners received a notice back in October, with a deadline for payment at the end of January. Each month the payment is late accrues a $10 late fee. Late notices have been issued over the past three months and summons to Municipal Court began in July.
If you haven’t yet licensed your animal(s) for 2022, please get your application and fees in now! You’ll be helping our community and your beloved pet. Hopewell Township’s dedicated animal control team responds 24/7 to ensure the well-being of all creatures, big and small, and shares the following important reminders:
Vaccinate your dogs, cats, and other domestic animals against rabies. The Health Department offers free clinics each year in January and November.
Do not let pets roam free. If your pet has an encounter with a wild animal, contact the Health Department at 609-737-0120 (after-hours: 609-737-3100).
Cover garbage cans securely and do not leave pet food outside.
Enjoy wildlife from a distance and avoid contact with wild animals. This includes baby deer! You may see a fawn that appears to be orphaned – 99% of the time, mom is nearby and will return within 24 hours. If you see a dead doe nearby or on the road, or if the fawn is in a garage, precarious area, or appears injured, contact the Township.
Never leave a pet in a parked car during hot weather. This is a leading cause of heatstroke for dogs. If traveling with your dog and must make a stop – even for a short time – leave the car and air conditioner running.
For more information, go to Hopewell Township's Animal Control page on the website- www.HopewellTwp.org/PetLicense.
