State law requires dogs to have a license

In Michigan, the law states that every owned dog must have a dog license to the county you live in.

In Ingham County, it is a misdemeanor offense if you don't.

Ingham County dogs must have a current dog tag on its collar at all times.

"A dog license could be the difference between your dog being lost permanently or brought home by an animal control officer if it was to get out," said Kate Turner, Ingham County Animal Control.

To purchase a dog license, the dog must have a current rabies vaccination.

In Ingham County, it costs $15 for a license if the dog is spayed or neutered.

A new initiative this year will take Animal Control officials door to door to educate pet owners about the importance of having a dog license.

Ingham County Treasurer Eric Schertzing and Animal Control Director Jodi Lebombard will be traveling with Animal Control Officers, selling dog licenses, providing information on how to get a dog license, or potentially serving citations for those found delinquent on licensing.

Cats are not required to have a license.

If you get a ticket for not having a dog license you are responsible for the cost of the ticket and in most cases, the licensing fee doubles.