Fellow dog lovers, I’m sure you can relate. The familiar clang of your dog trotting into the room with collar tags banging against each other—name tag, ID information, microchip information, rabies vaccination record and most importantly, the registration in the municipality in which you live. 

The sound of caring and responsibility. 

There are approximately 200 registered dogs in the Town of Tusten, which seems like a small portion of our considerable canine population. So, who are these undocumented dogs, and how can their families rectify the situation?

Let’s start with why it’s important to make sure your pet is registered. 

Sullivan County has been named a “rabies county” in the state of New York. Registering your dog helps bring this dire situation under control and prevents spread. If your dog were involved in an unfortunate incident, vaccinations will be on record. The aftermath would likely be much easier and safer for all involved.

Besides, it’s the law.

State statutes require all dogs four months and older to be vaccinated against rabies (unless exempt) and licensed. Once registered, the license tag must be worn by the dog, usually on the collar. 

Note: a dog license cannot be issued without proof the dog has an up-to-date rabies vaccination. You must have a paper certificate from your veterinarian at the time of application. Vaccination tags are not accepted.

The fee is $20 for dogs not spayed/neutered, and $10 for dogs that are. Proof of spaying/neutering also be submitted to the clerk’s office before the discount can be given.  Licenses can be purchased for one-, two- or three-year increments, but must coincide with the rabies expiration date.

Most importantly, registration would ensure a prompt return if your dog is lost and picked up by animal control. Our team consists of a team of two people. 

Nico Juarez, Tusten dog control officer, can be reached at 646/363-3887 (cell) or via the Town of Tusten phone system at 845/252-7146, ext. 1008. Tammy Cutler is the Tusten deputy dog control officer and can be reached at 845/707-3837 (cell).

In addition to licensing, the dog control team handles all local town dog law issues such as nuisance barking and Article 7 of NYS Ag & Market laws (www.agriculture.ny.gov/AI/AILaws/article7.pdf) which include dogs at large, dangerous dogs or other related issues. 

For those with multiple homes, pets can be on record in each municipality. For the sake of your community, your pet and your own peace of mind, consider registering or renewing the tags for your beloved pet as soon as possible.