The Front Street Animal Shelter is reminding and encouraging city residents to help protect their pets in case they go missing by getting a pet license.

Pet licensing in Sacramento is legally required, helping to swiftly connect pets to their owner and also serving as proof of a rabies vaccination.

“Licensing your pet – and keeping that license current – is one of the simplest, most effective ways to help ensure they make it home if they ever get lost,” said Ryan Hinderman, the shelter’s communications and customer service manager. “Additionally, licensing fees provide critical funding for shelter services that positively impact animals and the community such as caring for abandoned, sick, or injured animals.”

Each Sacramento license tag has a unique code etched on the back, and this code links directly to that pet’s very own secure online profile with 24/7 lost pet support and is used in getting lost pets home quickly.

According to 2025 records, the shelter saw over 10,000 dogs and cats. To help keep your pet out of the shelter, a license works best alongside a current microchip and visible ID tags with accurate contact information.

Visible tags allow immediate contact with an owner, while a microchip and license provide reliable backup identification if a collar is lost or removed.

Learn more on the Pet Licensing web page with a link to start or renew the process through DocuPet.