Dog licenses are now available at six area business, including several veterinarians, to make it easier to bring Rover into compliance with city law.

The City Council, in conjunction with its contract animal control service - the Watson Agency - made the change to make it easier to get dog licenses.

If a dog is licensed and it is picked up by the the animal control officer, it will be returned to the owner without charge. If the dog is not licensed, it is taken to the Kootenai Humane Society shelter and the owner is charged impound and boarding fees of up to $60.

Licensing dogs also ensures that all dogs are property immunized against contagious diseases, said John Austin, city finance director.

People with dogs that are spayed or neutered will pay $7 for the annual license and $15 if the dog is not fixed. Dog owners need to present proof of rabies vaccination in order to purchase the license. Three-year licenses are available in some cases.

The businesses now selling dog licenses include:

Animal Medical Center, 1902 Sherman Ave.

Sunset Animal Hospital, 3600 N. Government Way.

Prairie Animal Hospital, 920 W. Prairie Ave.

Hayden Lake Animal Hospital, 8761 N. Government Way.

Paradise Pet Shop, 7532 N. Government Way.

Watson Agency, 915 Sherman.

People with questions should call the Watson Agency at 664-9500.

, DataTimes