Summit County pet licensing
Frequently asked questions
HELP DESK
Still have a question that you have not been able to answer?
Visit our Help Desk for more information: https://docupetinc.zendesk.com/hc/en-us
LICENSING OPTIONS, DATES, AND LOCATIONS
Do licenses need to be renewed annually?
Licenses are required to be renewed prior to the expiration date each year.
When can I renew my pet's license?
You may renew your pet's license within 60 days of your pet's current license expiration date. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new license will start the day after expiration, not on the date of purchase.
What is the refund policy on licenses?
Refunds may be granted if your pet has passed away, provided the request is submitted within 30 days of the license purchase date. After this period, we’re unfortunately unable to process a refund.
When does my pet's license expire?
Licenses expire exactly 1 or 3 years from the license start date. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new license will start the day after expiration, not on the date of purchase. Rabies must be valid during the time of renewal.
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 vaccination prior to the temporary license expiration date. With the provision of a rabies expiration date in the future, your pet's license will be extended to the full term originally selected.
ACCOUNT UPDATES
My pet is no longer with me, but I’m still receiving renewal reminders?
We’re sorry! Unfortunately, unless you update your account to reflect that a pet is no longer in your care, we have no way of knowing. Have you already told us? You may have a duplicate account. Get in touch with your licensing organization or our DocuPet customer service team to update your record.
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.
FEES AND FINES
What is the processing fee?
A processing fee of $2.00 per license product applies to all online orders.
What is the senior citizen age requirement?
Those aged 65 and older may qualify for a senior citizen rate.
My pet is a service animal. Do I qualify for a discounted license rate?
No, service animals are subject to the standard license fee.
CITY INFORMATION AND CITY ORDINANCES
Who do I call if there’s an emergency involving dogs? (dog attack, loose dog, etc.)
Please get in touch with Summit County Animal Services at (970) 668-3230.
What species are required to be licensed?
The following species are required to be licensed: Dogs are mandatory and cats are voluntary.
DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
Why do I have to upload a rabies and spay/neuter document for my pet?
To license your pet, you will be required to show proof that the pet's rabies vaccination is current. Documentation is also required to verify that a pet has been spayed or neutered and must be provided in order to receive the discounted rate. Requiring documentation ensures that provided pet information is accurate, which is critical for identification and safety reasons.
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.
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.
My pet is rabies exempt, what do I do?
You will need to complete the required paperwork and visit Summit County Animal Services in person to qualify for rabies exemption.
What are acceptable documentation types?
A rabies proof is required to prove that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies. A rabies proof identifying your pet as spayed/neutered or a spay/neuter proof may be accepted as documentation of sterilization.
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.
My pet is spay/neuter exempt, what do I do?
You will need to complete the required paperwork and visit Summit County Animal Services in person to qualify for the spay/neuter exemption.

