It might seem like Langley is going to the dogs.
An estimated 18,000 dogs live in the Township. With that many canines, LAPS is hoping to get most of them licensed.
LAPS have staff who go door-to-door each year from March until the end of September, making it convenient for dog owners to comply with the licensing requirement.
“This campaign has been extremely successful and has seen licensing rates almost double over the last 10 years,” said animal shelter manager Sean Baker.
In fact, a 2009 study showed that the Township of Langley had the highest number of licensed dogs per household in Metro Vancouver. In 2014, approximately 12,000 dog licences were issued in the Township.
The revenue generated by dog licence fees helps to offset some of the costs of providing animal services in the City and Township. LAPS animal control officers are on shift seven days a week to care for stray and lost dogs. Also, the Patti Dale Animal Shelter is a first class facility that provides exceptional care for dogs that need a safe place.
“I have heard many dogs owners say that their dog never gets out or lost, but more than 80 do each month,” said Baker.
“And because of the services supported by licensing revenue, these dogs live and go home safely.”
The Township charges $31 to license a spayed or neutered dog. The cost for an animal that is not fixed is $60. In the City, spayed/neutered costs $42. Not fixed is $84.