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Dog Licensing Procedure & Fees Dog licensing ensures rabies vaccination which protects the health of your pet. Citizens should also know that by licensing their dog they are directly fighting animal cruelty and abuse. Most people do not realize that up to 90% of their dog license fees go directly to the Maine Animal Welfare Program. Dog license fees account for 95% of the State Animal Welfare Program’s entire funding and without these fees, the State would be unable to protect the animals of this state. All dogs 6 months and older must have a license. If you become the owner of a dog 6 months or older, the dog must be licensed by January of each year. In order to obtain a license for your dog, the owner must present a current State of Maine Rabies Certificate obtained from a veterinarian. This certificate will verify that your dog has received its rabies shot within the past two years. All dog licenses expire December 31 of each year. Renewal of licenses for the following year can be done at the City Clerk's Department beginning in November of each calendar year. Also, bring with you proof if a veterinarian has issued a written certificate stating the dog(s) is incapable of producing young by spaying or neutering. If you have already shown proof to the City Clerk's Office, then additional proof is not necessary. Dog License Fees:
Per state law, any dog license that is re-licensed after January 31 will be subject to a $15.00 late fee. To receive a license for your dog, please come into the City Clerk's Office at City Hall during our business hours which are Monday-Friday, 8am - 4:30pm. You may also re-license your dog through the mail. Our mailing address is City Clerk's Office, 27 Pine Street, Lewiston, ME 04240. You must send a copy of a current, State of Maine rabies certificate, along with a check payable to the "City of Lewiston" for the appropriate fee, and we will process the license and return the material to you. Please feel free to contact the City Clerk's Office at 513-3124, with any questions you may have. Note: Although cats do not require a license, they must be vaccinated against rabies.
Because rabies is a serious problem in the State. Please take the time to protect your pet against this deadly virus. If an animal is suspected of having rabies, they are quarantined. If during this time, the signs of rabies still appear, the only way to test an animal for rabies is to euthanase the animal. Please don't let this happen to your pet.
To contact Animal Control Officer Wendell Strout, please contact the Lewiston Police Department at 513-3111. This phone number should be used for questions and general information. If a Lewiston resident has a complaint to report, such as a barking dog, or to report an injured animal, please call the Lewiston Police Department dispatcher at 513-3324. The Animal Control Officer handles a variety of animal-related issues such as dog licensing enforcement, taking stray dogs to the animal shelter, following up on citizen complaints regarding barking dogs, lost dogs or cases of animal abuse or neglect, responding to calls of injured animals due to an auto accident or other accident, overseeing enforcement of the City's Animal ordinance, citizen education regarding rabies prevention, and other related issues. The stories you may have heard about animal cruelty are heart-breaking - neighborhood kids setting a dog on fire, organized cock fighting, a roadside zoo at which animals are beaten into submission and kept in horrible conditions. There are instances of neglect, too, in which an owner is not providing proper shelter, food or veterinary care for a companion animal. Many people who witness cruelty, neglect or animal abuse are not aware that legal action may be taken; some may be frightened to register a formal complaint for fear that the abuser will find out. But if it weren't for concerned citizens, humane organizations and police departments wouldn't know about many instances of animal cruelty. You can make a difference. If you witness, or hear about, animal cruelty, abuse or neglect taking place, you can help stop the suffering by reporting it to your local SPCA, humane society or law enforcement agency. Acts of animal cruelty can also be reported to The ASPCA's legal department so that local officials can be advised about how to prosecute the case; District Attorneys, too, need to understand the seriousness of animal abuse. Without more vigorous prosecution, abusers may continue to feel impervious to the law. Talk to local teachers, veterinarians, and the clergy - the more who are aware of the animal abuse plaguing our society, the less chance for abusers to hide. It is becoming increasingly clear that people who abuse animals are also linked to domestic violence, spousal and child abuse. And make sure schools in your town include humane education in their lesson plans; children who learn to love and respect animals will grow up to be compassionate adults. You can also help those who are working to stop animal cruelty by supporting your local animal rescue organization or shelter - you can donate money and supplies, or, better yet, your time. Volunteer at a local humane society, foster a shelter animal or adopt a companion animal. Promoting and practicing responsible pet ownership is another way to stop many abuses from starting.
Looking for a family pet? Check out the animals available for adoption at the Androscoggin Humane Society, located at 420 Poland Spring Road, Auburn. Visit their website at www.gahumane.org to see photos of the current animals looking for a new home. The ASPCA reminds you that adding a dog or cat to your family is a big decision and that you should act with your head, as well as your heart. If your family is thinking about getting a pet, consider these important points:
Remember, thinking before adopting will save the animal from being returned to the shelter and will offer the pet and family a long and satisfying life together. Each year, up to 60% of dogs and up to 70% of cats that enter shelters will end up dying because there is no one to adopt them. This is why the ASPCA asks that you go to an animal shelter or rescue group in your community if you are ready to get a pet, and see all the great companions waiting to enter your life. You'll find a range of ages and personalities, and you're even likely to see some purebreds. If you are looking for a specific breed of dog, there are breed rescue groups for virtually every different breed. The ASPCA also supports a special program to find homes for retired racing greyhounds -these graceful dogs can make wonderful companions! Of course, you can also search for your favorite breed at Petfinder.org, our national "cybershelter" partner. Although prospective owners can often find the perfect companion animal at local shelters, getting a pet should never be an impulse decision. Careful research and planning are essential, since being a responsible pet owner requires more than just providing adequate food, water and shelter. Potential pet owners should agree with these points before bringing a dog or cat home.
Individuals that consider these tips before adopting are more likely to understand the care and commitment that goes into owning a pet. Thinking before adopting will save the animal from being returned to the shelter and will allow the pet and the new owner a long and satisfying life together.
The following pet safety and pet ownership tips are from The Humane Society and The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Traveling in Vehicles Please be advised that, effective September 18, 1999, Maine law prohibits a driver from allowing a dog to ride in the bed of a pick-up truck, convertible or other open vehicle on a public way unless the dog is protected in a way that prevents the dog from falling, jumping, or being thrown from the vehicle. Heat Stroke Every year numerous pets suffer and even die from the heat. Companion animals who are particularly at risk of heat stroke include those who are tied up or who are left in poorly ventilated areas, such as cars. Some signs of an animal who is suffering from heat stroke include: exaggerated panting, anxious or staring expression; salivating; weakness; lack of coordination; convulsions; muscle tremors; collapse or death. You can help to protect your animal companion from the heat by ensuring that he/she:
Animals who are suffering from heat stroke need to be cooled down. First, remove the affected animal to cooler surroundings and apply cold water to his/her skin. Allow the animal to rest in a cool spot with small amounts of drinking water and then seek immediate veterinary attention. The best prevention is leaving your pets in the safety and comfort of your home during hot summer days. Contact your veterinarian or your local library for information on common dog health and safety issues. Some areas of concern include:
Dog Bite Prevention & Awareness According to recent national studies by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASCPA), one out of every two children in the United States will get bitten by a dog before their 12th birthday. 800,000 of these cases are severe enough to require medical treatment, while anywhere from 1 to 2 million go unreported. The majority of these bites will come from a dog that the child already knows - his own family pet, or an animal belonging to a friend or neighbor. By teaching your children the appropriate way to behave around dogs, you can help avoid potentially dangerous interactions, and reduce the chances of being bitten.
Many children get bitten by dogs in their own homes because they are not able to appreciate the idea of respect for an animal's space. Understanding these boundaries is of utmost importance when a dog is resting or during his mealtimes. If startled out of a deep sleep, for example, some canines are apt to snap. Explain to your child that he must never try to touch or play with a dog when he is sleeping or eating, and that he should never strike an animal to discipline or train him. It is also important that children understand not to stare directly into a dog's eyes. The animal could interpret this as a challenge to fight. Some cats do not like to be petted or held for any length of time, and children-and adults, too-should learn to respect and recognize the signs that a cat does not wish to be handled. These rules apply to other people's pets as well. But many children reason that because a neighborhood dog is chained up, that animal is safe to approach or even taunt from behind a fence. Should the chain break, however, the dog could bite. You should also explain to your child what to do if he sees a dog running loose outside. If he runs and/or screams, the dog may chase and attack him. The best thing to do is stand up very straight and keep absolutely still, even if the animal starts to sniff. Should the child accidentally trip or fall, he should lie perfectly still, curled in a fetal position, and keep his eyes closed until the dog moves off. If your child would like to pet a dog who is sitting calmly and is being controlled on a leash by his owner, he should follow these simple rules of canine etiquette. First, he should ask the owner if he can pet the dog. Next, he must ask permission of the animal by letting the dog sniff his closed fist. If the dog acts friendly and owner says its OK, your child is free to pet! While dogs have a very acute sense of hearing and a well developed sense of smell, they do not see as well as humans do, and they do not see colors, only shades of greys, whites and black. If your dog has bitten a child or anyone else in the household, he may have a serious behavior problem. It's best to seek the advice of a professional trainer to determine why he's biting, and how to stop him from doing so in the future. Unfortunately, many children accidentally cause some dogs to attack, either from their games or by simply playing with one another. Anyone who has been around children know that these games are accompanied by yelling, screaming, laughter, running, jumping, and rough housing. Some children will also try to encourage their own family dog, or a neighbor's dog, to join in the fun. They may crawl on the ground and make animal noises, or they may rough house with the dog, making sudden jerking movements near the dog's head, ears, side or tail. They may try to do all of these things with a very young dog, with an old dog, a nursing female with puppies, or with a dog that simply wants to be left alone. The most important thing for everyone to remember is that your dog, or in fact any dog, regards you not as a person, but as another dog. And if another dog teased or challenged or frightened your dog, then the other dog would not likely be surprised if your dog fled, growled, or even bit to make him stop. We need to find a balance, so that our children, their parents and their relatives can recognize that kids can still have fun and play with dogs. However, we need to be aware that even well intentioned behavior can result in a bite. The key is awareness and respect for your dog and other dogs - not to instill a fear of dogs in children and adults. Dog Bite Awareness: Tips For Child Safety 1. Be calm, gentle and as quiet as you can around dogs. They get tired, cranky, and excited just like you do. Because a dog can't speak to you and let you know these things, you need to try and watch for signs that let you know when the dog is becoming too scared or excited. 2. Try and get to know the dogs in your area. Do not try and pet a strange dog, even if he/she is with the owner and the owner says it's ok. Sometimes even a dog owner doesn't always know how their dog will behave around children. 3. Never approach a dog that is tied up, or that is in a small space. Although you don't mean to, this can frighten the dog, or cause him/her to try and protect their space the same way you might not want to share your favorite play space with another child. 4. Dogs also have favorite toys, just like you do. This may be an old blanket, a rubber toy, a ball, or a chewbone. The dog may not want to share this with you, and you should never try to approach a dog when he/she has it in their mouth or near them. 5. Imagine eating your favorite chocolate bar or ice cream cone, and having another child come along and even think about taking it away from you. Dogs are just the same. If a dog is eating, then you should not approach him/her because they might think you're trying to eat their dog food, even though you and I both know that it's just too yucky to even think about. 6. Even if you're eating your favorite snack or treat, if a dog tries to grab it, throw it so it falls behind him/her. In their excitement to get your snack or treat, not every dog has good manners. Whatever you do, don't try and stop the dog from taking your snack or your treat, because the dog may try and jump up and take it from you. Don't worry; your parents will get you another one. 7. You know how upset or angry you become when other children tease you by calling you names or pushing you. Dogs feel the same way, so please, don't ever tease a dog with food, or a toy or a stick or anything else. 8. When you approach a dog, even your own dog, don't pet him or her without letting them see and smell your closed hand first (don't let your fingers stick out). This way you don't surprise or scare your dog or another dog. Remember dogs don't see as well as people do, and they really depend on their sense of smell and hearing. 9. You know what it feels like when your parents and relatives rub the hair on the top of your head and tell you how big you've grown. You kind of like it, but it also kind of bothers you at the same time. Dogs feel just the same way. When you pet a dog, at first try scratching under his chin and even gently rubbing his chest. If this is ok with him/her then you can try gently scratching behind their ears or the top of their head. 10. Never rub a dog along his/her side or grab their tail, because believe it or not, when one dog tries to scare or pick a fight with another dog, this where the trouble first starts. 11. Dogs like to take naps a lot, just like you. So if your dog, or someone else is sleeping, remember that he/she may be having a bad dream and if you wake them up too suddenly, you may scare them without meaning to. 12. You know how your mother and father try to make sure that no one hurts you. Mother dogs are the same with their puppies. Wait for one of the puppies to come over to you, and keep an eye on the mother to make sure its ok with her. Only do this if your parents are with you and they say it's ok. 13. Have you ever been in a staring contest with someone? That's when you stare into another person's eyes to see who blinks their eyes or looks away first. Try it. It feels kind of weird or uncomfortable, doesn't it? Dogs are just like us. If you stare into a dog's eyes, this is the way another dog would pick a fight or even scare another dog. Even though you don't mean to, you will confuse your dog and he/she maybe scared or think you are trying to pick a fight. Some children also hold onto the dog's head while they are staring into his/her eyes, and the dog can feel trapped or frightened. 14. You know what it feels like when kids play too rough with you by pushing or shoving? Did you know that when a dog jumps up on you, that this is the way dogs play rough? Even though it seems like fun, this is where the trouble first starts because you are actually telling the dog that it's ok for him/her to play rough with you. 15. This next one is really tough. You need to know that while most dogs will never bite you, there are some that will. I hope you never meet one of them, but if you do and your parents, or older brother or sister or an adult is nearby, call for help. If they are not around, or too far away, then it's going to be up to you to try and help yourself. 16. You will be scared, but try to be as brave as you can. 17. If you have a bicycle, a jacket, a wagon, a tree branch, or anything else lying around, try and put it between you and the dog. 18. If you have some food, something in your pocket, or can pick up a stick, or a ball, or even a stone, throw it as far away as you can behind the dog: the dog may run after it. 19. If you think the dog is going to bite you, try your hardest not to scream or run away, because this will only show the dog that you are afraid and will cause the dog to bite you. 20. Never turn your back on a dog and try to run away, because the dog will always run faster than you, and you won't be able to keep your eyes on the dog. 21. Instead, back away slowly, and talk quietly to the dog, telling him what a good dog he/she is. 22. If you can, try and run into a yard, or up onto someone's porch, or someplace safe where the dog can't get at you. 23. If the dog does attack, you will have to decide to do one of two things:
You will have to make a choice very quickly, and no one can be sure which is the right one. 24. You may be tired of hearing it, but it is true that practice makes perfect. Work with your parents and friends and learn how to respect our four-legged friends and how to protect yourself at the same time. 25. Watch for early warning signs that a dog may be getting ready to bite. The dog may growl or bark. Someone may have told you that if a dog wags his/her tail they will never bite, and that is wrong. Sometimes when a dog is getting ready to bite, he will also wag his tail because he is very nervous or angry. 26. You know how sometimes you fight with your best friend, or with another child you don't know very well? Once in a while, dogs do the same thing. If two dogs are fighting, even if one of them is your dog, never try and stop them. Because dogs will be so excited, they will bite you by mistake. It may look like they are really hurting each other, but there is nothing you can do except call one of your parents or an adult and let them break up the fight. 27. It's great that your parents want you to help out around the house by walking your dog. However, if your dog is too big for you to handle, even on a leash, then don't be afraid to ask your parents to come with you. 28. Remember that most dogs never bite anyone, but it is always better to be prepared. Dog Bite Awareness: Tips for Dog Owners 1. Your dog is going to be a member of your family for at least twelve to fourteen years. Make sure that you pick the right dog for the right reason. 2. Sometimes, people will also buy a dog to guard their home, especially after a break in. Consider getting an alarm system instead. Although there are many reputable dog trainers out there, you should be aware that there is no licensing or monitoring system for dog trainers. A badly trained, or a cruelly trained guard dog is a time bomb waiting to go off. If your guard dog bites or even kills someone, you will never forgive yourself, and you will be visiting tragedy on someone else, your family and your dog. You will also be leaving yourself wide open to the possibility of criminal charges and civil lawsuits. 3. There are over one hundred and fifty breeds of dogs and even more crossbred dogs. Your local humane society or animal shelter has lots of beautiful crossbred dogs, which need loving homes. 4. If you are determined to buy a purebred dog, then visit at least four different breeders and make sure you see the mother and father, and see the way the dogs and puppies react to the breeder, and look at the way the breeder treats his/her dogs. If the breeder cannot provide you with registration papers, or says they will mail them to you, then don't buy a dog or puppy from them. 5. Please consider having your pet spayed or neutered. An estimated one million unwanted dogs and cats are killed each year in this country because there are simply not enough loving homes for all of them. Even if you think you can find a home for your puppies and kittens, that means fewer homes for someone else who has the same idea as you. 6. Be aware that some dogs are better off living in the country, rather than in the city. If you can't spare more than two hours (or more) every day to exercise your dog properly, then don't get a big dog that needs a lot of exercise. Even smaller dogs should be walked two or three times a day, for a total of at least an hour. 7. In today's fast paced world, the most precious thing we all have in short supply is time. Most of us are also two income families and no one is home during the daytime. Make sure that you adopt the right dog for your family. If no one is home during the day, then do not adopt a puppy, unless you are willing to take at least four weeks off to train him or her. 8. Puppies develop their personalities between the ages of 8 -12 weeks, and they are very social pack animals. They need and want attention. 9. You may be able to adopt an older dog that is already fully trained, but had to be given up because a person was moving or developed allergies. Even so, be prepared to take time off to spend with your dog for the first several weeks, until he/she becomes accustomed to your new home. 10. Spay or neuter your dogs. This will reduce their aggression and will make them a healthier happier pet. 11. Train your dog using rewards of food and affection and encouragement. Never use punishment because it doesn't work and is harmful. Carefully investigate any dog trainer and make sure he/she really knows what they are doing. Do not send your dog away to be trained without you. You need to be with the dog and be trained alongside him/her. Visit other dogs the trainer has worked with. 12. Make sure your dog is socialized and familiar with people, animals, and the sights and sounds of your neighborhood. 13. Never tease or play aggressive games with your dog. How is your dog supposed to understand when and where he/she can be aggressive or what their limits should be? 14. Be aware that when you pat your thigh and tell your dog to jump up on your leg, you are teaching your dog that it is OK to be aggressive. 15. Dogs chase smaller animals because they regard them as prey. Encouraging this type of behavior teaches your dog that it is ok to chase anything they regard as prey. 16. Dogs often bark when someone comes onto your property or knocks on your door. While this is desirable, do not encourage your dog to go overboard with his protective behavior. If you do encourage him, remember you may not be able to easily get him to turn this behavior on and off like a light switch. 17. If you don't know how your dog behaves around children, then don't tell children that it is ok to pet your dog. Also use your own good judgment. If the child seems nervous, or too aggressive, or has food in his/her hand, don't let them pet. If you tell a child that it is ok to pet your dog, and their parent(s) says no, don't take it personally. They are only looking out for their child's best interests. 18. Some dogs are also fearful or aggressive around children. Don't try and break your dog's habits at the expense of your own children or someone else's children. 19. If you have an aggressive dog, the worst thing you can do is be in denial. "My dog is just playing rough" or "My dog would never bite anyone" are famous last words. If you have an aggressive dog then seek professional help immediately from your veterinarian. Don't put it off for any reason, and do not wait for your dog to "grow out of it." That simply isn't going to happen. The problem is only going to get worse for everyone involved, including your dog. 20. If you have to give up an aggressive dog, do not under any circumstances rush out and get another dog. Try and figure out what went wrong, and honestly ask yourself if you were at fault. Be fair to yourself, your family, your neighbors, and your next dog. If you have had a particularly serious incident, you may even decide not to get another dog. Whatever you decide, have a cooling off period of at least several months and think the decision through logically and carefully. 21. Some well-meaning owners take their dogs everywhere with them. They tie their dogs up outside of restaurants, outdoor cafes and stores - and then leave them alone "just for a minute" or "just for a little while." This is an accident waiting to happen, because your dog is surrounded by a cacophony of sights, sounds, smells and people and children passing by (some with food in their hand or their shopping bags). When your dog is tied up, he/she has their movement restricted and they can become more easily frightened or territorial or may refuse to take no for answer when that child refuses to give up their ice cream cone. Give everyone a break, especially your dog, and leave him/her at home in familiar surroundings. 22. Never put your hand in between two dogs that are fighting with each other. You will only be bitten by one or both dogs. Try commanding them to stop. If this does not work, try and distract the dogs by whistling, throwing a ball or stick. Although it may seem like forever, the dogs will actually stop fighting very quickly if left on their own. 23. If you are not certain how your dog will react under new and unfamiliar conditions (for example, like taking them camping or to someone's home for the first time), then make sure your dog is under firm, but very tight, control for everyone's sake. 24. Dogs bite due to a combination of genetics, training and environment and this involves factors which can include, but are not limited to: food, toys, aggression, defense, fear, injury, illness, age, and prey. 25. No one expects that you can plan to prevent or control every situation. But you can be aware of potential problems and exercise reasonable care and supervision to prevent and reduce the frequency and severity of dog bites. Dog Bite Awareness: Tips for Parents What is it now? I have to worry about something else? No, but you need to be aware of it. 1. You remembered to 'street proof' your kids. You told them to look both ways before they cross the street. To wear a helmet when they're riding their bike, skateboard or rollerblades. You've told them not to talk to, or accept rides from, strangers. You've warned them about drugs and smoking. What about dogs? 2. Dogs are one of the greatest friends your children or your family will ever have. They are our friends, our companions, and they teach our children responsibility and respect for others. 3. In fact, all of the above reasons are part of the problem. Most dogs never bite anyone, so we become busy, or don't even think about it, or even worse pretend it could never happen to us or to our children. That simply isn't the case. 4. Please read the section on Tips for Child Safety and Tips for Dog Owners and explain and practice the safety tips with your children. 5. Never under any circumstances leave even your family dog alone with infants or small children. We need to be very clear on this, because children have been maimed and killed this way. 6. We all agree that it's important to teach children responsibility, but be realistic. If you have a small child and a very large dog, or even a very excitable smaller dog, don't ask your child to try and walk the dog by him/herself. The last person in the world who will probably admit to you that they can't walk your dog by themselves is your child. 7. Be safe; enjoy your dogs and those in the neighborhood. Be aware of the need for safety for your children and your family. National Animal Poison Control Center This organization, the first national, 24-hour animal-oriented poison information center, was acquired by the ASPCA in August 1996. Since 1978, its licensed veterinarians and board-certified veterinary toxicologists have been available to advise animal owners and confer with veterinarians. Link to: ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center http://www.napcc.aspca.org |
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