(Cochrane, AB) – Annual animal licence renewal notices have been mailed or emailed to Cochrane pet owners this month, and 2026 renewals are open. Licensing your pet helps keep animals safe, supports important community services and makes it easier to reunite lost pets with their families.
Under Cochrane’s Animal Bylaw 04/2016, all dogs and cats over the age of three months must have a licence. Animal licences are renewed once every calendar year and are an important part of responsible pet ownership in Cochrane.
“Having a current animal licence is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help ensure lost pets are returned home quickly,” says Flynn Scott, Manager of Municipal Enforcement. “Licence fees also support services and amenities that benefit pets and pet owners across our community, including funding for shelter services and partnerships that support animal care.”
The Town recently launched a new online pet licensing system designed to make registration and renewals faster and easier for residents. Existing customer accounts have already been securely migrated to the new system, so current users can simply log in using their existing information - there is no need to create a new account.
Residents are encouraged to renew early and ensure their contact information is up to date. Pet owners registering for the first time can also complete the process online.
Animal licensing helps support a safer, more pet-friendly Cochrane by:
- Helping Animal Services quickly identify and return lost pets
- Supporting emergency response and animal care services
- Assisting with planning for pet-friendly amenities and programs
- Supporting local enforcement and community waste bag stations
For more information on registration, renewals, payment methods and licensing requirements, visit cochrane.ca/petlicence.
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