Your Licensing Guide

Why License?

In accordance with local laws, pet licences are mandatory in the in the jurisdictions Niagara SPCA serves. In fact, licences are mandatory in nearly every community across North America. Why? Because licences help keep pets and the communities they live in safe. DocuPet was brought on board to simplify and improve pet licensing to benefit not only pet owners like you, but the entire community. DocuPet makes it easy for the Niagara SPCA to deliver a successful pet licensing program with a streamlined software and management solution that makes licensing a breeze for pet owners and administrators alike.

Check out the ways you can license your pet below and feel good knowing that 100% of licensing revenue funds are given to the Niagara SPCA to support important animal welfare initiatives helping to improve your community.

How to License

  • Online
  • In-person
  • Mail
  • Phone

The fastest and easiest way to license or renew is right here. You’ll create a profile for your pet, upload any necessary documents, process your licence registration, and receive purchase confirmations via email. Payment can be made using a credit card or Visa/Mastercard debit card. Each year, you just need to log in to your existing account and renew - it’s super easy!

Renew my pet's licence

My pet has a licence, but it has expired or will very soon.

Renew now

License a pet for the first time

I've never licensed a pet with the Niagara SPCA before.

License now

In person licensing is available at the following location(s) however it’s important to know you will still receive your tag in the mail:

Don’t forget to check hours of operation, appointment policies, and accepted payment methods prior to heading out.

Haldimand County

Welland and District SPCA:
60 Provincial Street, Welland, ON L3B 5W7

Ruffins Dunnville:
209 Queen St, Dunnville, ON N1A 1H8

Caledonia Office:
282 Argyle St S, Caledonia, ON N3W 1K7

Hagersville Office:
1 Main St S, Hagersville, ON N0A 1H0

Dunnville Satellite Office:
1-117 Forest Street East, Dunnville, ON N1A 1B9

Selkirk Public Library:
34 Main St, Selkirk, ON N0A 1P0

Jarvis Public Library:
2 Monson St, Jarvis, ON N0A 1J0

Cayuga Office:
45 Munsee St N, Cayuga, ON N0A 1E0

Lincoln

Welland and District SPCA:
60 Provincial Street, Welland ON L3B 5W7

Lincoln Town Hall:
4800 South Service Road, Beamsville ON L0R 1B1

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls Humane Society:
6025 Chippawa Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 0E4

City Hall:
4310 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2K9

Pelham

Welland and District SPCA:
60 Provincial St., Welland, ON L3B 5W7

Port Colborne

Welland and District SPCA:
60 Provincial St., Welland, ON L3B 5W7

Wainfleet

Welland and District SPCA:
60 Provincial Street, Welland, ON L3B 5W7

Wainfleet Town Hall:
31940 Hwy 3, Wainfleet, ON L0S 1V0

Welland

Welland and District SPCA:
60 Provincial Street, Welland, ON L3B 5W7

West Lincoln

Welland and District SPCA:
60 Provincial Street, Welland, ON L3B 5W7

West Lincoln Town Hall:
318 Canborough Rd, Smithville, ON L0R 2A0

If you opt to license via snail mail - keep in mind processing your registration will take a lot longer!

Make sure you complete the below form in full and that it is free of any errors otherwise your registration may not be successfully processed. The fine print is there for a reason so keep an eye out for accepted payment methods, who the check should be made out to, where it should be mailed, and any required supporting documentation.

Pet licence form

Download Registration Form

If you’re having trouble licensing online and need to get your registration processed in a hurry, you can contact our customer care team and they may be able to process your pet licence over the phone. Note that you must have up to date spay/neuter or rabies documents on file and we can only accept credit cards and Visa/Mastercard debit as payment.

DocuPet Customer Care: 1-855-249-1370
Hours of Operation: Monday-Saturday (excluding holidays) from 9:00am-9:00pm EST

Select your community

Niagara SPCA and Humane Society is contracted to issue licences in the following areas:

Haldimand County

Lincoln

Niagara Falls

Pelham

Port Colborne

Wainfleet

Welland

West Lincoln

Haldimand County Details & Fees

Pet licences are required for all dogs living in Haldimand County. They must be renewed every year prior to January 1st. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming licence expirations via mail, phone, and email.

Microchipped or Tattooed Fee On or before Jan 1st After Jan 1st
Non-Spayed/Neutered Dog $39.00 $49.00
Spayed/Neutered Dog $21.00 $31.00
Non-Microchipped or Tattooed Fee On or before Jan 1st After Jan 1st
Non-Spayed/Neutered Dog $43.00 $53.00
Spayed/Neutered Dog $28.00 $38.00
Dangerous Dog On or before Jan 1st After Jan 1st
All dangerous dogs $116.00 $126.00
Microchipped or Tattooed Fee
On or before Jan 1st
Spayed/Neutered $21.00
Non-Spayed/Neutered $39.00
Microchipped or Tattooed Fee
After Jan 1st
Spayed/Neutered $31.00
Non-Spayed/Neutered $49.00
Non-Microchipped or Tattooed Fee
On or before Jan 1st
Spayed/Neutered $28.00
Non-Spayed/Neutered $43.00
Non-Microchipped or Tattooed Fee
After Jan 1st
Spayed/Neutered $38.00
Non-Spayed/Neutered $53.00
Dangerous Dog
On or before Jan 1 $116.00
After Jan 1 $126.00

A replacement municipal tag is available for a $5 fee or at no additional charge when you license your pet.

Licence fees vary based on the spay/neuter status of your pet.

When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.

A fine up to $170 may be charged for failing to comply.

Late fees come into effect as of January 2nd.

Discounted licence rates are available for dogs with microchips.

Lincoln Details & Fees

Pet licences are required for all dogs living in the Town of Lincoln. They must be renewed every year prior to December 31st. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming licence expirations via mail, phone, and email.

Dog Nov 1 - Dec 31 Jan 1 - Feb 28 Mar 1 - May 31 Jun 1 - Oct 31
Spayed/Neutered Dog $26.90 $43.10 $61.20 $83.40
Fertile Dog $53.70 $69.90 $89.00 $111.20
New Resident After July 1
Sterilized Dog* $12.50
Fertile Dog* $25.00
Cat All Year
Voluntary Cat Licence $20.00
Spayed/Neutered Dog
Nov 1 - Dec 31 $26.90
Jan 1 - Feb 28 $43.10
Mar 1 - May 31 $61.20
Jun 1 - Oct 31 $83.40
Fertile Dog
Nov 1 - Dec 31 $53.70
Jan 1 - Feb 28 $69.90
Mar 1 - May 31 $89.00
Jun 1 - Oct 31 $111.20
New Resident After July 1
Sterilized Dog* $12.50
Fertile Dog* $25.00
Cat All Year
Voluntary Cat Licence $20.00

*Must be purchased in person or over the phone.

A replacement municipal tag is available for a $5.60 fee or at no additional charge when you license your pet.

Voluntary cat licences are available in the Town of Lincoln. Although not required, licensing your cat is a great way to help ensure their safety.

Licence fees vary based on the spay/neuter status of your pet.

When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.

A fine up to $120 may be charged for failing to comply.

License fees increase periodically throughout the year as per the above fee schedule.

Niagara Falls Details & Fees

Pet licences are required for all dogs living in the City of Niagara Falls. They must be renewed every year prior to the expiration date. Licences expire exactly 365 days from the start date of the licence. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming licence expirations via mail, phone, and email.

Licence Type Fee
Fertile Dog $40.00
Sterilized Dog $20.00
All voluntary cats $20.00
Dog Licences
Fertile Dog $40.00
Sterilized Dog $20.00
Voluntary Cat
All voluntary cats $20.00

A replacement municipal tag is available for a $10 fee or at no additional charge when you license your pet.

Voluntary cat licences are available in the City of Niagara Falls. Although not required, licensing your cat is a great way to help ensure their safety.

Licence fees vary based on the spay/neuter status of your pet.

When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.

Pelham Details & Fees

Pet licences are required for all dogs living in the Town of Pelham. They must be renewed every year prior to December 31st. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming licence expirations via mail, phone, and email.

Dog Licences Nov 1 - Dec 31 After Dec 31
Spayed/Neutered Dog $14.00 $17.00
Fertile Dog $22.00 $25.00
Cat Licences All Year
Voluntary Cat Licence $20.00
Spayed/Neutered Dog
Nov 1 - Dec 31 $14.00
After Dec 31 $17.00
Fertile Dog
Nov 1 - Dec 31 $22.00
After Dec 31 $25.00
Voluntary Cat Licence
All Year $20.00

A replacement municipal tag is available for a $3 fee or at no additional charge when you license your pet.

Voluntary cat licences are available in the Town of Pelham. Although not required, licensing your cat is a great way to help ensure their safety.

Licence fees vary based on the spay/neuter status of your pet.

When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.

A fine up to $60 may be charged for failing to comply.

Late fees come into effect as of January 1st.

Port Colborne Details & Fees

Pet licences are required for all dogs living in the City of Port Colborne. They must be renewed every year prior to December 31st. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming licence expirations via mail, phone, and email.

Nov 1 - Mar 15 After Mar 15
Spayed/Neutered Dog $18.00 $33.00
Fertile Dog $33.00 $45.00
Spayed/Neutered Dog
Nov 1 - Mar 15 $18.00
After Mar 15 $33.00
Fertile Dog
Nov 1 - Mar 15 $33.00
After Mar 15 $45.00

A replacement municipal tag is available for a $6.00 fee or at no additional charge when you license your pet.

Licence fees vary based on the spay/neuter status of your pet.

When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.

A fine up to $120 may be charged for failing to comply.

Late fees come into effect as of March 16th.

Wainfleet Details & Fees

Pet licences are required for all dogs living in the Township of Wainfleet. They must be renewed every year prior to December 31st. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming licence expirations via mail, phone, and email.

Dog Licences Nov 1 - Dec 31 After Dec 31
Spayed/Neutered Dog $14.00 $17.00
Fertile Dog $22.00 $25.00
Cat Licences All year
Voluntary Cat Licence $20.00
Spayed/Neutered Dog Nov 1 -
Dec 31		 After Dec 31
Fee $14.00 $17.00
Fertile Dog Nov 1 -
Dec 31		 After Dec 31
Fee $22.00 $25.00
Cat Licences All Year
Voluntary Cat Licence $20.00

A replacement municipal tag is available for a $3 fee or at no additional charge when you license your pet.

Voluntary cat licences are available in the Township of Wainfleet. Although not required, licensing your cat is a great way to help ensure their safety.

Licence fees vary based on the spay/neuter status of your pet.

When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.

Late fees come into effect as of January 1st.

Welland Details & Fees

Pet licences are required for all dogs and cats living in the City of Welland. They must be renewed every year prior to December 31st. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming licence expirations via mail, phone, and email.

Dog Licences Nov 1 - Feb 1 Feb 2 - Oct 31
Spayed/Neutered Dog $15.00 $20.00
Senior's Spayed/Neutered Dog (65+) $7.50 $10.00
Fertile Dog $25.00 $35.00
Senior's Fertile Dog (65+) $12.50 $17.50
Dangerous Dog All year
Annual Dangerous Dog $100.00
Cat Licences All year
Lifetime Cat Licence $10.00
Spayed/Neutered Dog Nov 1 -
Feb 1		 Feb 2 -
Oct 31
Fee $15.00 $20.00
Senior's Fee (65+) $7.50 $10.00
Fertile Dog Nov 1 -
Feb 1		 Feb 2 -
Oct 31
Fee $25.00 $35.00
Senior's Fee (65+) $12.50 $17.50
Cat Licences
Lifetime Cat Licence $100.00
Dangerous Dog
Fee $100.00

A replacement municipal tag is available for a $3 fee or at no additional charge when you license your pet.

Licence fees vary based on the spay/neuter status of your pet.

When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.

A fine up to $175 may be charged for failing to comply.

Late fees come into effect as of January 1st.

Pet owners must be 65 or older to qualify for senior citizen rates.

Cat licences are valid for the lifetime of the pet.

West Lincoln Details & Fees

Pet licences are required for all dogs living in the Township of West Lincoln. They must be renewed every year prior to December 31st. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming licence expirations via mail, phone, and email.

Dog Licences Nov 1 - Dec 31 After Dec 31
Spayed/Neutered Dog $14.00 $17.00
Fertile Dog $25.00 $30.00
Cat Licences All year
Voluntary Cat Licence $20.00
Spayed/Neutered Dog Nov 1 -
Dec 31		 After Dec 31
Fee $14.00 $17.00
Fertile Dog Nov 1 -
Dec 31		 After Dec 31
Fee $25.00 $30.00
Cat Licences All Year
Voluntary Cat Licence $20.00

A replacement municipal tag is available for a $3 fee or at no additional charge when you license your pet.

Voluntary cat licences are available in the Township of West Lincoln. Although not required, licensing your cat is a great way to help ensure their safety.

Licence fees vary based on the spay/neuter status of your pet.

When licensing a Certified Guide or Assistance Dog for the first time, licensing must be done in person. Future renewals may be done online once the status is verified.

A fine up to $120 may be charged for failing to comply.

Late fees come into effect as of January 1st.

Frequently Asked Questions

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LICENSING OPTIONS, DATES, AND LOCATIONS

Refunds may be granted for a licence if a pet passes or is returned within 30 days of the licence purchase.

The Niagara SPCA & Humane Society provides licensing services for the following areas: Haldimand County, Town of Lincoln, City of Niagara Falls, City of Welland, Wainfleet Township, West Lincoln Township, Town of Pelham, and City of Port Colborne

Partners typically receive licensing records from third party locations on a monthly basis. Once the licensing records have been picked up a member of your community's licensing team will upload the license record within 14 business days. Please reach out to your community directly to check on the status if you purchased a license and don't see the records reflected in your online account within 60 days of the purchase date.

  • Halidmand County: All licences expire each year on December 31st. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will still start on January 1st.
  • Lincoln: All licences expire each year on December 31st. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will still start on January 1st.
  • Niagara Falls:  Licences expire exactly 365 days from the licence start date. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will start the day after expiration, not on the date of purchase.
  • Pelham: All licences expire each year on December 31st. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will still start on January 1st.
  • Port Colborne: All licences expire each year on December 31st. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will still start on January 1st.
  • Wainfleet: All licences expire each year on December 31st. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will still start on January 1st.
  • Welland: All licences expire each year on December 31st. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will still start on January 1st.
  • West Lincoln: All licences expire each year on December 31st. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will still start on January 1st.

 

Please visit the Niagara SPCA & Humane Society in person as kennel licensing is not processed through DocuPet. They are located at 60 Provincial St. in Welland.

You may license in person at the Niagara SPCA & Humane Society located at 60 Provincial St. in Welland.

It makes sense to renew your pet's licence early! You may renew your pet's licence within 60 days of your pet's current licence expiration date. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new licence will start the day after expiration, not on the date of purchase.

Licences are required to be renewed prior to the expiration date each year.

FEES AND FINES

Late fees vary for each licensing community. Please visit this page for more informaiton on licensing fees in your community.  

Visit this page for licensing options and fees. 

A fine for failing to licence your pet varies for each licensing community. Please visit this page for more informaiton on fines in your community.  

No, there is no discount for licensing multiple pets. Each pet will be charged the appropriate licensing fee. 

Please visit the Niagara SPCA & Humane Society in person if you are qualifying for this rate for the first time. Once the team there verifies your designation you will be able to renew online in future years.

Please visit the Niagara SPCA & Humane Society in person if you are qualifying for this rate for the first time. They are located at 60 Provincial St. in Welland. Once the team there verifies your designation you will be able to renew online in future years.

PET INFORMATION AND PROFILES

If you are moving please be sure to update your address by logging into your online account and navigating to your Profile Settings page. Even though you are moving you’ll still be able to keep your pet's tag and access your pet's online account. However, your current licence may not be valid in the new community you are moving to. Please get in touch with the pet licensing provider in the new community you are moving to in order to find out more information.

MUNICIPAL INFORMATION AND BYLAWS

Please get in touch with Niagara SPCA & Humane Society at 905-735-1552.

Unless your dog was obtained prior to DOLA coming into place, the following breeds are banned: Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and American Pit Bull Terriers.

Pet limits vary for each licensing community. Please visit this page for more informaiton on pet limits in your community.  

  • Halidmand County: visit this page for information on licensing bylaws
  • Lincoln: visit this page for information on licensing bylaws
  • Niagara Falls: visit this page for information on licensing bylaws
  • Pelham: visit this page for information on licensing bylaws
  • Port Colborne: visit this page for information on licensing bylaws
  • Wainfleet: visit this page for information on licensing bylaws
  • Welland: visit this page for information on licensing bylaws
  • West Lincoln: visit this page for information on licensing bylaws

The following species are required to be licensed:

  • Haldimand County: Dogs
  • Lincoln: Dogs
  • Niagara Falls: Dogs 
  • Pelham: Dogs
  • Port Colborne: Dogs
  • Wainfleet: Dogs
  • Welland: Dogs and cats
  • West Lincoln: Dogs

HELP DESK

Visit our DocuPet Help Desk for more information.