For 2026, dog owners will have to pay a little more for their pet’s license.

This week, both Carbon and Schuylkill county treasurers announced that effective Dec. 1, the cost for a dog license will increase by approximately $2. Dogs are required by law to be licensed annually by their owner, starting at 3 months of age.

In Schuylkill County, Treasurer Linda Yeich said that residents can apply for a dog license on the county website at www.schuylkillcountypa.gov, in the Schuylkill County Treasurer’s Office or your veterinarian office.

Yearly dog licenses may also be purchased by calling the county treasurer’s office or online at: www.padoglicense.com. A $2 additional online fee applies per dog.

An annual dog license will increase this year to $10.70 per dog for regular or $8.70 per dog for senior/disabled. Lifetime licenses are available for dogs that have been microchipped or tattooed.

“Even if your dog is microchipped, a dog license is highly recommended. It’s the best way to get your furry friend home to you,” Yeich said.

A lifetime license application must be accompanied with a permanent identification verification form, which is to be completed by a veterinarian or kennel. The fee for a lifetime license is $52.70 for regular or $36.70 for senior/disabled.

For your convenience, there are also a number of agents throughout Schuylkill County where you can purchase your yearly dog license.

A list of the 2026 dog license agents is available on our county website: www.schuylkillcountypa.gov. Licenses will no longer be available to purchase from Warren Lane, Ashland or Ruth Steinert SPCA, Pine Grove.

In Carbon County, Treasurer Kevin Zelienka said that beginning Dec. 1, residents can purchase the licenses on the county website or through the state’s online portal, as well as by mail or in person at the county treasurer’s office, 2 Hazard Square, Administration building, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229.

License cost in Carbon are $10.80 per dog for regular or $8.80 per dog for senior/disabled. Lifetime licenses are $52.80 for regular and $36.80 for seniors/disabled.

Licensing is required for all dogs 3 months of age or older and must be done by Jan. 1 of each year,” Zelienka reported in a release. “Failure to license a dog can result in a fine of up to $500 per dog, but court costs.”

If a dog gets lost, a license is the best way to help reunite the dog with his or her owner. On the back of each annual dog tag is the phone number for the county treasurer’s office.