Fargo Residents Risk $60 Fine for Unregistered Pets

Local Journalism talent Joins WDAY Team

Breaking News: WDAY is pleased to announce that Drew Berg has joined its newsroom as a multimedia Reporting Intern, beginning in May 2025. This marks a notable step in Berg’s burgeoning career in local news.

Berg brings a wealth of experience from his prior internship as a Sports Reporting intern for The Forum during the Fall of 2024. His foundational experience in journalism began with the campus News TV program at Minnesota State University – moorhead, where he is currently a Senior pursuing degrees in broadcast Journalism and Multimedia Journalism. his early immersion in campus media provided him with a strong understanding of news production and storytelling across multiple platforms.

Evergreen Insight: The trajectory of emerging journalists frequently enough starts with internships,providing invaluable hands-on experience and mentorship. For aspiring journalists, actively seeking out opportunities in campus media and local news organizations is a crucial step in developing essential skills and building a professional network. berg’s journey highlights the importance of a multi-faceted approach to learning the craft, from sports reporting to multimedia journalism, preparing him for a dynamic career in informing the public.

What documentation is required to register a pet in Fargo?

Understanding Fargo’s Pet Registration Laws

Fargo residents need to be aware of recent enforcement regarding pet registration. As of July 2025, the city is actively issuing fines of $60 to owners of unregistered dogs and cats. This isn’t a new law, but increased attention is being paid to compliance. The purpose? To ensure pet safety, facilitate quicker returns of lost pets, and support local animal control efforts. Ignoring these regulations can lead to financial penalties and potential difficulties if your furry friend goes missing.

Who Needs to Register Their Pet?

The ordinance applies to all dogs and cats over the age of six months residing within Fargo city limits. This includes:

Dogs: All breeds,irrespective of size.

Cats: Both indoor and outdoor cats.

New Residents: If you’ve recently moved to Fargo with a pet, registration is required.

Recently Acquired Pets: New pets must be registered promptly.

Failure to register your companion animal within the stipulated timeframe results in the $60 fine. Repeat offenses may incur higher penalties.

How to Register Your Pet in Fargo

Registering your pet is a straightforward process. Fargo offers several convenient options:

1. Online Registration: The fastest method. Visit the City of Fargo’s official website (https://www.fargond.gov/city-government/city-departments/animal-control/pet-licensing – This is a placeholder URL, verify current link) and follow the online instructions. You’ll need your pet’s vaccination records (specifically rabies vaccination proof) and a valid form of payment.
2. In-person Registration: Visit the Fargo Animal Control facility during buisness hours. Bring your pet’s vaccination records and payment.
3. Mail-In Registration: Download the registration form from the city website,complete it,and mail it along with a copy of your pet’s rabies certificate and payment to the address provided on the form.

Required Documentation for Pet Licensing

To successfully register your pet, you’ll need to provide:

Proof of Rabies Vaccination: This is mandatory.The rabies vaccine must be current.

Veterinary records: While not always required, having additional veterinary documentation can be helpful.

Spay/Neuter Certificate: If your pet is spayed or neutered, providing proof may result in a reduced registration fee.

Owner Identification: A valid driver’s license or other government-issued ID.

Cost of Pet Registration – Fargo Fees

The cost of pet licensing in Fargo varies depending on several factors:

Spayed/Neutered Pets: Typically lower fees.

Unspayed/Unneutered Pets: Higher fees.

Senior Citizen Discounts: Might potentially be available for qualifying residents.

Late Registration Fees: Apply if registration is not completed within the designated timeframe.

As of July 2025,expect to pay approximately $15-$30 for a spayed/neutered pet and $30-$60 for an unaltered pet. These fees are subject to change; always confirm current pricing on the city’s website.

Benefits of Registering Your Pet

Beyond avoiding the $60 fine, registering your pet offers several important benefits:

Increased Chance of Return: A registered pet is more likely to be reunited with you if lost. The microchip information linked to your registration significantly aids in identification.

Community Safety: Registration helps track animal population and manage potential public health concerns.

Support for Animal Welfare: Registration fees contribute to the funding of local animal shelters and animal control services.

Proof of Ownership: Registration serves as official documentation of pet ownership.

What Happens if Your pet is Found Unregistered?

If an animal control officer finds your pet without current registration, you will receive a warning for the first offense. Subsequent encounters will result in the $60 fine. Repeated non-compliance coudl lead to further legal action.The officer will likely scan for a microchip as a secondary means of identification, but registration remains the primary requirement.

Resources for Fargo Pet Owners

* Fargo Animal Control: [https://www.fargond.gov/city-government/city-departments/animal-control](https://www.fargond.gov/city-government/city-departments/animal