Animal Control Officials to Do Pet Checks Near West Covina

Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) Officers plan to be in unincorporated West Covina Wednesday to check pets for current rabies vaccinations and to make sure residents are in compliance with licensing requirements and the mandatory spay/neuter and microchip ordinance, according to a news release.

State law mandates that all dogs and cats over four months old get vaccinated against rabies and be licensed.  Licenses can aid control agencies find lost pets, officials said.

Residents living in any unincorporated area of Los Angeles County or in a contract city that has adopted the county's ordinance are urged to be in compliance with the requirements and the mandatory ordinance or risk paying fines.

Pet owners not in compliance will be subject to license fees and delinquency charges, including a $40 fee for field enforcement to offset the department's costs, officials said. Those needing a new animal license can visit http://animalcare.lacounty.gov  to print an application or go to a local county animal care center. Licenses that are not delinquent can be renewed online.

DAAC offers low-cost vaccination and microchip clinics. Microchips cost $15, including registration. Low-cost assistance for qualifying individuals is also available for spay and neuter surgeries. Visit the department's website or stop by a local county animal care center for more information on these services.

For more information about DACC, find the department on Facebook www.facebook.com/CountyofLosAngelesAnimalCare, or follow it on Twitter @LACoAnimalCare.