Pet Licensing and Ownership

The City of Dubuque's Animal Control laws protect both people and pets. Pet licensing is an important responsibility for pet owners, but it should also provide peace of mind. Licensing your pet allows Animal Control staff to identify pets and respond appropriately, helping lost animals get home quicker.

Pet Licensing

Dogs and cats must be licensed when they are six (6) months old or within 30 days of obtaining the animal. Licensing provides evidence that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies and also helps identify a pet if it goes missing. License tags must be attached to a pet.

The City of Dubuque sells dog and cat licenses through DocuPet, a firm that specializes in handling pet licensing services throughout the country. 

Pet Ownership

Rabies Vaccinations

All dogs and cats must be vaccinated for rabies when they are six (6) months old.

Animal Bites

All bites must be reported to the Health Services Department by calling 563-589-4185. An investigation will be conducted. The animal may be confined for 10 days at a veterinarian clinic, or the animal may be observed with home confinement if it meets very specific criteria and is approved by the Animal Control Officer.

Leash Law and Impoundment

Animals must be leashed OR restricted to not go beyond the owner’s property line. Pets must be leashed at all times when off the owner or keeper’s property except at the City's Pet Park or John G. Bergfeld Recreation Area for water retrieval exercise. Unleashed pets accompanied by the owner while jogging, cycling, visiting parks, etc., violate City regulations.

Dogs and cats running “at large” will be impounded at the Dubuque Regional Humane Society, 4242 Chavenelle Rd. The owner will be charged a $30 fine for a first offense, and $60 for each additional offense.

Pet Waste Disposal

Pet owners must pick up all droppings deposited when walking their pet on public walks, recreation areas, or other private property. Pet owners must keep personal property free of pet waste. Waste must be removed immediately and disposed of properly.

Guidelines for Pets in Public Areas

The City of Dubuque strives to be a pet-friendly community. There are many public areas where pets are allowed to be on leash, and a handful of areas where pets are not allowed or must remain inside a vehicle.

Prohibited Animals

City Ordinance prohibits the keeping, sheltering, or harboring for any purpose within the City of Dubuque, any dangerous animal, as defined in Section 7-6D-1.