San Mateo County urges dog and cat owners to act before pet licensing penalty waiver ends
San Mateo, California – A missing pet can turn an ordinary day into a desperate search. But a simple license could make the difference between a quick reunion and days of uncertainty for a worried owner.
In San Mateo County, that small piece of identification does much more than help lost animals get home. Health officials say it also plays an important role in preventing rabies, protecting residents and keeping animal control services operating across the county.
San Mateo County Health is encouraging residents to license their dogs and cats, reminding pet owners that the requirement is both a legal obligation and a public health measure. To make compliance easier, the county is temporarily waiving late fees and penalties through November 30, 2026.
The reminder comes as rabies remains a concern in local wildlife, particularly bats. According to California Department of Public Health data, San Mateo County has averaged approximately two bats testing positive for rabies annually over the past 11 years.
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Although that number may appear small, the consequences of rabies exposure can be devastating. The disease spreads through infected saliva, usually through an animal bite, and is fatal once symptoms develop. Vaccination, however, can prevent infection.
“Our dogs and cats are part of the family, and keeping their rabies shots current is one of the simplest things we can do to protect them and the people around them,” said Tina Cava, chief of Animal Control and Licensing at San Mateo County Health.
“A license is how we make sure every pet’s vaccination stays up to date, and it’s how we find an owner quickly when a pet is lost or involved in a bite.”
County regulations require dogs and cats to receive rabies vaccinations by three months of age. Owners must provide proof of vaccination before obtaining a license, which is linked to the vaccination’s expiration date.
The system also allows public health officials to identify animals and contact their owners when investigating bites or possible rabies exposure.
Beyond disease prevention, licensing helps support animal welfare services throughout San Mateo County’s 20 cities and towns.
Through a countywide agreement, the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA provides services including rescuing injured animals, collecting strays, investigating bites and sheltering animals. Licensing revenue helps offset part of the costs municipalities pay for these services.
Each license also contributes $1 to the county’s Spay and Neuter Trust Fund, which provides vouchers to help eligible residents cover sterilization costs.
For owners of missing pets, current licensing records can help animal control officers quickly establish ownership and arrange reunions. Updated license information may sometimes be more current than microchip registration details.
Dogs and cats must be licensed by three months of age or within 60 days of acquisition. Residents moving into San Mateo County also have 60 days to complete the process.
Applications require a rabies vaccination certificate, proof of the animal’s age and documentation of spay or neuter status when applicable.
Owners can apply through PetData, submit applications by mail or visit designated county and Peninsula Humane Society locations. Additional instructions are available on the county’s animal licensing website.
Regular licensing charges remain in effect during the temporary waiver, but residents with expired licenses or previously unlicensed pets can avoid additional penalties until November 30.
For licensing questions, residents can contact PetData at 866-925-5906. Lost or found animals can be reported to the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA at 650-340-7022.
