The grace period for City of Whitney residents to register their dogs and cats without paying a fee will continue through May 11 as registration roundups are held.
The city has planned three registration events at Whitney City Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Remaining dates are May 4 and May 11. Those registering early can register their pets for free on these dates. All pet owners who arrive by 1 p.m. will have time to register.
The registration requirement is part of the city’s overall effort to create an animal control program and reduce the number of stray animals.
After the last roundup on May 11, pet owners must register at City Hall, and the regular fees will be charged. The normal registration fee is $5 for spayed/neutered animals and $30 for intact animals.
Citizens are asked not to bring their pets to registration to avoid potential conflicts with other animals and to keep people in attendance safe.
Official proof of rabies vaccination from a veterinarian is required, and pet owners will be turned away if the animal is not vaccinated for rabies as required by state law.
For those who want to register their dog as spayed or neutered, an official document must be presented from the clinic that performed the procedure proving that the dog or cat cannot reproduce. This is optional but encouraged.
If the dog or cat is chipped, owners are encouraged to bring paperwork showing chip registration numbers and contact information.
After registering, pet owners will be asked to email a clear picture of their pet to drew.youngblood@cityofwhitneytx.com.
The Lakelander 