Question: How do I go about licensing my dog and when do I need to do it?

Answer: Tewksbury Town Clerk, Denise Graffeo, reminds dog owners that the 2011 license for their dog(s) expired on Dec. 31.

 It is that time of the year when dogs (6 months of age or over) must be licensed. The license is valid for one calendar year, and must be renewed annually.

The fee for all dogs; male, female, neutered or spayed is $15.00 annually. Overdue fees shall be increased to $20.00 if not paid on or before March 15, 2012 and to $30.00 if not paid on or before July 1, 2012. A dog owner applying for a license shall be obligated to pay all outstanding dog license fees relating to the past licensing period and any outstanding violation notices.

The Town Clerk’s Office is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday, 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM and Friday, 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.  A current rabies certificate must be presented before a dog license may be issued, unless this office has a current rabies certificate on file.

For your convenience, you may prefer to license your dog by mail; provided that you include the license fee, a current rabies certificate and a self-addressed stamped envelope and mail to: Town Clerk, Town Hall, 1009 Main Street, Tewksbury, MA 01876.  Dog license applications may be obtained on the Town of Tewksbury website at the following link: http://www.tewksbury.net/Pages/TewksburyMA_Clerk/dog.pdf