From staff reports

MIFFLINTOWN — State dog wardens will conduct periodic checks in Juniata County from spring through summer to ensure compliance with licensing and rabies vaccination requirements.

Officials said wardens will canvass homes to verify that dogs are properly licensed and vaccinated, as required under Pennsylvania law.

All dogs must be licensed by 3 months of age or at the time of purchase or adoption. An annual license costs $10.80, while a lifetime license is available for $52.80 for dogs with permanent identification such as a microchip or tattoo. Discounted rates are available for senior citizens and people with disabilities.

Failure to license a dog can result in fines of up to $500, plus court costs, for each unlicensed animal.

In addition to licensing, all dogs and non-feral cats 3 months and older must be vaccinated against rabies, with booster shots administered as required.

Officials said dog license fees help fund enforcement efforts, including kennel inspections, investigations into illegal breeding operations, monitoring of dangerous dogs and the return of stray animals to their owners.

Licenses may be purchased in person at the Juniata County Treasurer’s Office, 26 N. Main St., Mifflintown, by mail or online at padoglicense.com. They are also available at select local retailers.

For more information, contact the treasurer’s office at 717-436-7742 or visit juniataco.org.