Early bird rates for pet licences now available to Ponoka residents

Pet owners in the Town of Ponoka can now take advantage of early bird discounted rates for pet licenses by renewing their animal licences for the 2025 year until Dec. 31, 2024.

The early bird rate is $15 annually for spayed or neutered animals, or $30 for unaltered animals, which is a discount of almost 70 per cent for spayed or neutered animals, and a discount of 50 per cent for unaltered animals.

Residents who renew their pet licences by Dec. 31 will receive a free pet waste bag dispenser with a roll of bags while supplies last.

The early bird rate also applies at any time for:

• New Ponoka residents who move to town and own a dog and/or cat; and

• Residents who become first time animal owners of a dog and/or cat.

 All dogs and cats six months of age and older must be licensed annually to comply with the town's Animal Control Bylaw.

” An animal licence is your pet's ticket home and helps ensure they can more easily be returned home safely by the town's animal control contractor,” stated a press release from the town.

“Licensing also saves pet owners added cost if your animal accidentally escapes your property, which can result in a fine for failing to license your cat or dog.”

Licence fees are used to offset the cost of animal control services. 

Documented proof of spay or neuter is required to qualify for the discounted altered animal rate. This can include an official letter from your veterinarian or a receipt from the procedure.