Municipal Code on Longmont Pets

Vaccinations are required within Longmont city limits.

According to Longmont Municipal Ordinance, rabies vaccinations are required for all Longmont pets.

7.04.040 - It is unlawful to own, keep, harbor, or possess any dog or cat over the age three months that has not been vaccinated against rabies. The owner shall have the animal vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian and shall keep the vaccinations current. The vaccines must be ones licensed by the US Department of Agriculture, approved by the Colorado Department of Health and provide for at least a one-year duration of immunity.

It is unlawful to bring, own, keep, harbor or possess any Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs in the city unless the pig has been inspected and issued a Colorado Certificate of Veterinary Inspection by a veterinarian, who is licensed and accredited by the State of Colorado. The owner shall maintain proof of the inspection.

City of Longmont Municipal Ordinances animals within the city limits.

Breed Bans

There is a lot of controversy about breed-specific legislation, many differing opinions. In Longmont there are no breed specific laws in place. All dogs have the potential to run at large, be a nuisance or even bite. It is up to the owner to control their animal and be a responsible pet owner. Longmont animal laws are designed to enforce that they do. Longmont Animal Control is a strong advocator for responsible pet ownership no matter what the breed of animal.

Licensing for Pets in the Longmont City Limits with DocuPet

Pet licenses are important and required in the city of Longmont. When lost pets end up in shelters, those with license tags, or chips get home faster, opening up shelter space for animals that truly need it.

DocuPet is now the official pet licensing center for the City of Longmont, as all dogs and cats must be yearly licensed and vaccinated against rabies.  Your pet's license now includes DocuPet's HomeSafe 24/7 lost pet service and license tags with personalization options.

When you register your pet in the City of Longmont, you will receive a license tag to attach to their collar. The new licensing process allows residents to select a standard license tag at no additional charge or upgrade to one of DocuPet's colorful tag styles for an additional fee.

The city believes proper identification is critical to safely getting pets home and reducing shelter intakes and associated fees. Of the 6.5 million pets that enter shelters, about 11% are reunited with their owners.

The new system provides:

• Online or by phone at 1-877-239-6072 pet licensing through DocUPet.
• In person pet licensing registration at Longmont Public Safety, 225 Kimbark during lobby hours.
• Online owner access to a dashboard for your pet's information on Docupet.com.
• Once you register, tags for your pet's official City of Longmont license will be mailed to you. If your pet is lost, and someone locates your pet, the associated number on the tag will assist them in reuniting a lost pet through HomeSafe, a 24/7 service at 1-877-239-6072.

Pet licensing for a pot-bellied pig can not be obtained through our online system (DocuPet). Please contact  Longmont Public Safety Animal Control by email or by phone at (303) 651-8501.

Is your pet lost? Found a lost pet with a Docupet pet license?

Benefits of Licensing

Licensing your pet not only displays responsible pet ownership but it also helps fund local animal welfare initiatives in your community. In addition to your pet's license, here are some benefits of your DocuPet online profile:

• Select a standard City of Longmont tag or pay an additional cost for a unique designer tag style or design your own.
• With full access to HomeSafe 24/7 lost per service, upload recent photos of your pet and include important information that will  help identify and retrieve them if they become lost
• Add additional pet guardians to your pet's profile
• Skip the trip and purchase or renew your pet's license from the comfort of home
• Upload important new documents for your pet by snapping a photo
• Easily view and download your pet's license documentation
• Manage or change your account anytime including updating your contact information and making changes to pet details and status
• View your order status and history

For additional information you can call (303) 651-8500 or email Animal Control.

Animal bites

The law requires all animal bites that break the skin of a person (with the exception of rodent bites) be reported to the animal control office in the jurisdiction where the bite occurred.

For non-emergency information regarding animal related issues you may call (303) 651-8500 or email Animal Control.

Barking dogs

Problem Barking

Bothersome or nuisance barking is a common problem in Longmont. There are solutions and recommendations for both the dog owners and for the neighbors at their wits' end.

It is unlawful for any person owning, possessing or keeping custodial or supervisory authority or control over any animal, to permit such animal to habitually squeal, snort, grunt, bark, howl, yelp, squawk, screech, caterwaul, wail, crow or make any other animal sound in such manner as to significantly disrupt the peace and quiet of the neighborhood, or in such manner as to materially and persistently disturb the peace of another in the neighborhood under conditions that would disturb a person of reasonable and ordinary sensibilities. Such animals are declared to be a public nuisance.

How to report problem barking

Animal Control recommends talking face to face with the dog's owner as a first step, if possible. If this is unsuccessful, or you are not comfortable talking with the dog owner you may call (303) 651-8500 and report the complaint. Animal Control can verbally or in writing, warn the dog owner if it is an anonymous complaint. A warning notice can be posted if there is a complainant that is willing to leave their name and phone number, or a summons can be issued with appropriate evidence.

For Animal Control to issue a summons, there needs to be at least one warning on record for this offense for the offending dog owner and have two separate households in the area willing to witness. A video, or audio tape of the offense can also be provided as evidence if there is a single witness. Witnesses must be willing to appear in court if necessary.

To report a complaint, Animal Control needs the exact address of the barking dog. We need the most recent date and duration of time that you were disturbed. We also need you to describe how you know the barking is coming from the address you have identified, ie you can see the dogs barking from your window, you have followed the barking to the source, etc. A description of the dog(s), if possible is helpful.

Other Options:

• Mediation. If you have a dog barking problem in your neighborhood, City of Longmont Mediation Services may be an option. Mediation Services collaborates with government agencies in serving the citizens of Longmont by providing effective mediation, communication, and negotiation processes, using qualified, professional volunteers, in order to foster harmony through conflict resolution services. Contact the City of Longmont, Community and Neighborhood Services at (303) 651-8444.

IF YOUR DOG IS THE "PROBLEM BARKER"

If you have received a complaint about your dog, it is important to correct the problem so that your neighbors do not take legal action, or take their frustrations out on your dog. Remember, being proactive and solving the problem at hand will help you to avoid legal action, and will promote good relations with your neighbors.

Solutions to the Problem

The following are some suggestions that may help you solve a barking dog problem. These suggestions may not work on hyperactive or vocal dogs. You may need to seek professional training for your pet. There are numerous local obedience classes which you can choose from.

• Bring your dog in the house when you leave. Many dogs bark continually once you are gone. If you do not want your dog to have the run of the house, you may wish to contain the dog in a certain area, i.e. a basement or laundry room, or crate train your dog.
• Put your dog in the garage. Many people choose to do this if they have a large dog. Be certain to provide old blankets, rugs or carpet for your pet to lay on. A cold, hard cement floor is far from comfortable.
• No matter where you decide to keep your pet, be certain there is clean water and shelter available at all times. Many dogs will bark and whine if they are thirsty or cold.
• When your dog starts to bark, it is the dog owner's responsibility to find out what is causing the problem. Do not ignore the barking no matter what time it may be.

Why Some Dogs Bark, and Some Suggestions

• Boredom: some dogs will bark just because they are bored. Supply your pet with chew toys or beef bones. Give him a ball, a stuffed toy or something that will occupy him while you are away.
• Loneliness: many dogs bark because they are lonely and want some company. By barking, the dog has gotten your attention, and whether you punish him or not, he has attained his goal. Therefore, he may continue to bark just so he can see you. This is a bad situation for both you and the dog.
• Restrictions on Freedom: a dog who is chained continuously in a small area will tend to become aggressive. He will soon bark at the slightest sound or movement, such as leaves, moving cars, or the wind. Be aware that the dog is barking to relieve his tension due to being confined and lonely; a cruel situation for any animal to be in.
• Protective of Territory: this is very natural for any type of dog, yet consistent and habitual barking is a sign of an unruly dog. It is important to teach your dog to bark enough to alert you and then to respond to you and sit quietly. This way the dog feels he is protecting his property while the owner is still in control of his behavior.

A Cure

The best thing you can do to correct his problem is work on training the dog. For specific directions, contact a qualified obedience instructor. Spend time with your dog and include him in your daily activities. Remember, you are his only means of exercise and love.

Mechanical and Surgical Solutions

Anti-bark collars, either electronic or sonic, or citronella as well as fence-mounted anti-bark devices, are available through local pet stores and pet product distributors. Please contact your veterinarian for surgical solutions.

If you are too busy to spend time with your dog everyday, you are probably too busy to own a dog.

If you are wishing to report an animal that is in a life threatening situation today, please call (303) 651-8500. For non-emergency information regarding animal related issues you may call (303) 651-8500 or email Animal Control.

The City of Longmont allows backyard chickens with a permit, but prohibits all roosters.

All permits for backyard chickens are processed through the city of Longmont Planning and Development Services. For additional information please call (303)651-8332.

The municipal code for Prohibited Keeping of Animals is 7.04.130

Violations for the prohibited keeping of animals can be reported to Longmont Police Animal Control by email or phone (303) 651-8500.

Deceased Animals

Deceased animals are handled by two different city offices depending on the type of animal you have located.

1. Wild Animals - If you encounter deceased wild animals in the public right-of-way, such as raccoons, squirrels or large animals like deer, please contact Public Works at (303) 651-8416, and they will send out someone to pick up the animal. Small wild animals that are deceased and on your property can be placed in a plastic bag and placed in your trash receptacle.

2. Domestic Dogs or Cats -  Longmont Police Services Animal Control Unit is able to assist with a deceased domestic dog or cat in which you are not the owner. If you are in the unfortunate situation of having a family cat or dog that has died, you may take your pet to the Longmont Humane Society and arrange for cremation services. While some pet owners may wish to bury a deceased pet in their backyard, this practice is against municipal ordinance within the city limits. This practice is prohibited due to issues of health and safety, and the possibility of other animals getting into the burial site. Animal Control can be reached by email or by phone at (303) 651-8500.

Dog Parks

Link to Longmont Dog Parks

Missing Pets

There are a number of resources to assist in looking for your pet:

Is your pet lost and licensed with DocuPet?

Don't panic. If your pet is licensed, every City of Longmont license tag through DocuPet (effective 2/16/24) comes with a free HomeSafe™ 24/7 lost pet service, which has reunited thousands of lost pets through linked tags and comprehensive online pet profiles. Log into your profile and report your pet lost by clicking on their name and then using the "Report Lost" button. HomeSafe™ dedicated staff is immediately alerted and an email will go out with your pet's information to registered members in your community. Log in now.

Depending on what information you have made publicly available through your profile settings, anyone who finds your pet may get in touch with you in one of two ways:

1. Directly through your supplied contact information
2. Through DocuPet’s HomeSafe^TM team by submitting a "Found Pet Report" or calling the 24/7 hotline number at 1-877-239-6072.

Check other resources for lost and found pets

1. Longmont Emergency Communications Center non-emergency number for animal control (303) 651-8500.
2. Facebook - Longmont Lost and Found Pets
3. Longmont Humane Society at (303) 772-1232 or on their website at lost and found pet listings
4. Check the Longmont Humane Society adoption (placed after 5 days at the Humane Society).

For all of the resources above, please be prepared to provide a description of the pet along with a cell phone number that you can be reached while you are out searching. This cell phone will also allow you to communicate with others in the event the pet is located.

Don’t waste time!  Get a couple of people to help search in an organized way.  Search the neighborhood by foot. If your pet has been missing for some time leave behind a phone number with people you make contact with in the event they find your missing pet.

Bring along your dog’s favorite toy, or another noise that makes them comes running. Bringing treats can also be beneficial.

If possible, bring along another dog on your search. Dogs are attracted to other friendly companions.

1. Make flyers. Be specific. Lost (dog’s name) a brown dog with white face and paws. Photos are very helpful in the flyer. Provide the location where the dog was lost from.  Include identifying information including collar, tags, or any other unusual information about your pet. Indicate that it is a family pet. Residents are more likely to help if they can relate to the anguish over a missing pet. Place flyers around the neighborhood.
2. Extend your search after 24 hours to include contacting other shelters and provide photos with your phone number in the event your pet is found.
   • Humane Society of Boulder Valley,
   • NOCO Humane (Larimer County)
   • Weld County, do lost reports with photos at these shelters in case your pet shows up. Search a larger area.
3. Place flyers in businesses and other locations.
4. Stay positive. Dogs have been reunited with their owners even after a year or more. Keep going back to the shelter with the photo of your dog.

   For additional assistance, please call (303) 651-8500 or email Animal Control.

Nuisance Cats

Cats can become a nuisance if left to roam and cause damage to property or other wildlife. The property damage ordinance does apply to cats; cats causing damage to private property can be trapped by the property owner and transported to the Longmont Humane Society or have Animal Control pick up the cat, if contained.The owner of the cat could be cited if evidence is obtained to show the cat did the damage.

Longmont Animal Control will pick up cats if they have been contained, or have bitten a human, appear ill, or are injured or have been contained.

What can I do about nuisance cats as a home owner?

Longmont residents can protect their property by trying the following suggestions: Repellents may be used - such as a commercial product or home remedies like coffee grounds, cayenne pepper, moth balls, fine pepper, orange peels etc.

Don't give cats or wildlife the opportunity to get into your garbage. Store your garbage in metal or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, and put trash out only when it's scheduled to be picked up. Always feed your animals inside.

Work it out on a neighborhood level! Discuss the situation with your neighbor, the owner of the cat.

Humane traps may be purchased, borrowed, rented or the Longmont Humane Society does rent traps. Offending cats may be trapped if they are on your property and then transported to the Longmont Humane Society or picked up by Animal Control.

Longmont Animal Control strongly encourages all cat owners to keep their cats inside to avoid conflict with neighbors and to keep their cat safe.

If you are wishing to report an animal that is in a life threatening situation today, please call (303) 651-8500. For non-emergency information regarding animal related issues you may call (303) 651-8500 or email Animal Control.

Pets and the Holidays

Christmas Decorations

Christmas trees should be secure so that cats and dogs cannot pull them down. Tinsel and ribbons can be fatal to a dog, car, or bird if swallowed. Be cautious with Christmas lights, they can also be fatal if a dog, cat or bird chews through the wires and it can also be a fire hazard for your home. Make sure your fragile ornaments are out of reach of a curious cat or dog that might be attracted to the shiny surface or sparkles and try to bat it off the tree. Don't use popcorn for decorations. Dogs, cats and birds can choke on popcorn. If you are using a live tree, make sure that the preservative in the water is not poisonous to your pet. Many times, pets will mistake this water for drinking water. Be sure that your animal is properly "potty-trained" or they might use the tree as a watering post. Don't feed your pets rich holiday foods. Do not give your pet leftover turkey bones or other table scraps and don't feed your animal’s candy, nuts, or chocolate which can be fatal. Poinsettias are extremely poisonous to cats and dogs. Precautions should be taken to move poinsettias so that animals cannot chew on the leaves.

Purchasing a pet during the holidays

In general, pets as holiday presents are a very bad idea both for the pet, and for the person receiving the pet. During the first few weeks of the New Year, animal shelters and humane organizations see a steady stream of cats, dogs, small animals and other pets that were given to someone at Christmas time.

Puppies just don't make good presents because they need so much attention and care as well as require constant attention and supervision when you first bring them home. They must be fed three to four times daily. House training must start immediately and it is a time-consuming process. Puppies usually need to go out every time they eat, drink, play or wake up from a nap, including the sleepiest hours of these cold, winter nights.

During the holiday season people are so busy that they don't have the time it takes to fulfill a new pup's 'round the clock demands. It's unfair to bring a young dog into the chaos of holiday celebrations and ignore their needs.

It is best done later, when things are calmer and there's more time to help the puppy adjust to their new surroundings.

Puppies advertised as Christmas presents have most often been bred to bring their owner extra cash for the holidays. Most reputable breeders do not have litters available during the holidays because puppies that are given as presents seldom remain in their first home.

4th of July

Independence Day is among the most celebrated holidays in the nation. Coloradoans stay out past sunset to watch the fireworks light up the sky and thunder through the night. Firework shows can be a fun experience for many, but they can also frighten and disorient our canine and feline friends. If you are a pet owner, make sure you are following these tips to protect your pet from harm:

• Don't take your pet to a fireworks display
• Do not leave your pet in the car. Opened windows do not provide sufficient air.
• Keep your pets indoors at home in a sheltered, quiet area. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you've removed any fragile items. Also leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep them company.
• Take your pet for a walk first. Some pets are too frightened to void once the fireworks begin, and this may lead to an "accident" later on.
• Provide a safe "escape" place. Pets will seek out a small den-like place, such as a crate, if they are fearful or stressed. It is recommended to create that safe place and familiarize your pet with it before needed, to reduce stress during fireworks.
• If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult your veterinarian before July Fourth.
• Never leave your pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
• Use a leash or a carrier. If you must be outside with your pet, keep the pet on a leash or in a carrier.
• Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the local animal shelter, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.
• If you plan to go away for the 4th of July holiday, arrangements should be made to ensure that your pet is properly taken care of in your absence.

If you are wishing to report an animal that is in a life-threatening situation today, please call (303) 651-8500. For non-emergency information regarding animal related issues you may call (303) 651-8500 or email Animal Control.

Pets and Weather

Hot weather precautions

Considering the danger to your pet's health, and even life, it is best to avoid taking your pet with you in the car when it is hot outside unless a cool environment can be assured. Never leave your pet alone in a car when it is hot outside, even for a matter of minutes. Also, avoid exercising your pet excessively in the hot weather and make sure your pet has access to shade and plenty of water.

• Hot cars can turn into a deadly death trap - even with the windows cracked. Within 10 minutes the temperature inside an automobile can rise to 160 degrees and cause irreversible brain damage and/or death to pets.
• Dogs that are kept outside need available shade and water at all times.
• Dogs should be properly groomed so that their hair doesn't get too long. Dogs with long hair are more susceptible to heat stroke and other hot weather problems.
• Avoid excess exercise with your pet when it is hot outside.
• Be mindful of hot pavements. Dog paws are easily injured on super-hot streets and it is very painful to dogs.
• Always keep your dog on a leash. Animal Control Officers are enforcing the city's leash law in parks, on bike paths, and other areas of the city.
• Always read labels on garden products, bug sprays, and other outdoor products to make sure they are pet friendly.

Heat prostration is a potentially fatal condition that occurs when animals are exposed to hot environments, such as inside a car with the windows closed (or even partly open) or other unventilated enclosures. Heat prostration occurs when the body temperature is elevated to approximately 106 degrees Fahrenheit and death will occur at 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

Heat prostration constitutes a medical emergency. Several vital organs are damaged in heat prostration including the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. Signs of heat prostration are many and varied, and not all of which occur simultaneously. Initial signs include: rapid breathing or panting; rapid heart and pulse rates; pale, red or dry gums; excess salivation; decreased alertness; coma, seizures; weakness, vomiting; diarrhea; and bleeding.

Immediate measures need to be applied rapidly in order to save the animal's life and prevent brain damage. These measures are lowering the body temperature and, if necessary, CPR. Methods to lower the body temperature include bathing the animal in cool water and then blowing air over the body. Also, ice packs should be placed in the groin and armpits, and on the neck.

These measures to cool the body should be discontinued when the temperature is lowered to 103 degrees Fahrenheit because paradoxically, hypothermia may ensue. An animal that has sustained heat prostration should be taken immediately to a veterinarian for evaluation, treatment, and monitoring.

If you are wishing to report an animal that is in a life threatening situation today, please call (303) 651-8500.

For non-emergency information regarding animal related issues you may call (303) 651-8500 or email Animal Control.

Wild Animals

Bats

Exclusion is the best policy in preventing bats from gaining entrance into buildings. It isn't always easy though, because of their size. Bats can squeeze through cracks as narrow as an inch wide. Some of their preferred entrances are in older frame structures where boards are loose or have shrunk. They may also enter houses through loose vents, eaves, spaces around water pipes, electrical outlets, corrugated roofing, doors or windows.

If you're certain the noises in your attic are being made by bats, wait for them to leave, then seal the entrances before they return. Unfortunately, you will need to do the work at night when bats depart for their nightly feeding forays. It's also wise to do this in the fall after the young have learned to fly. Or, wait until the winter when many bats have migrated south.

• Caulking cracks is most effective if applied during dry weather when cracks are widest.
• Weather-stripping, which seals spaces around doors and windows, is also effective in repairing cracks.
• Never handle a bat that appears sick or wounded.

Bats can be helpful in your neighborhood because they consume a lot of insects and usually do not pose a health threat to humans. More information from Colorado Parks and Wildlife regarding bats.

Bird fallen out of nest

In cases where newly hatched birds have fallen from their nest, return them to the nest if you can do so safely. Or, place them on a high branch to keep them away from pets. Keep in mind that when young birds begin to fly, they often spend time on the ground before they perfect their flying skills. If this appears to be the case, leave them alone and let them learn.

Bears

Make sure you do not contribute to resident bears becoming "garbage" bears. Most conflicts between bears and people are linked to careless handling of food or garbage. Don't let your carelessness cause the unnecessary death of a bear. Learn to live responsibly with wildlife! Black bears will eat almost anything. They will eat human food, garbage, hummingbird food, and pet and livestock food when available. Once a bear has found the easily accessible, consistent food source that human settlements can offer, it may overcome its wariness of people and visit regularly, increasing the chance of a human/bear encounter. You and your neighbors can make a difference. Your actions may prevent the unnecessary death of a bear. More information from Colorado Parks and Wildlife regarding bears.

Coyotes

Coyotes provide an enjoyable wildlife viewing experience, however, keep your distance and do not approach the animals. However, you must be aware that coyotes will kill and eat domestic cats and dogs. Leash your dogs. Retractable leashes are not recommended. Don't leave pet food outside, as problems may result. Keep cats inside, or in a six-sided cat "play area" while outside. Store your garbage in a garage or shed. Put trash out only on the morning of trash collection, not the night before. Clean your garbage cans regularly to reduce residual odors. More information from Colorado Parks and Wildlife on coyotes.

Fox

Fox will not attack dogs or children, but sometimes if the fox is hungry enough, it may go after cats. By and large, however, foxes seem to pay little heed to adult cats recognizing that they are dealing with an animal that is almost their size and certainly one that has a well-deserved reputation for self-defense. Kittens, however, could be easy prey for a fox, as might small adult cats.

Occasionally, fox make their dens under decks, patios or outbuildings:

• Roll rags into a tight ball and tie with twine. These should be the size of a tennis ball. Soak these in ammonia. Throw the ammonia balls in the entrance hole of the den.
• Anything with a human scent will alarm the foxes as well. Trying putting smelly sweat socks or old sneakers around the area where the fox come and go.
• Place "scare balloons" mounted about 2 to 3 feet off the ground just outside the entrance to the den.
• Bang on the top of the den with a shovel, making as much noise as possible.
• Place a radio, tuned to a talk program, at the main entrance of the den.
• Slowly, over a period of days, destroy the den in increments.

More information regarding fox visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife webpage.

Geese

Geese are attracted to areas with open water and large expanses of grass such as golf courses, parks and large apartment complexes. The problem is most noticeable during winter when large numbers of migrating geese join year-round residents. Human conflicts with geese sometimes arise because the changes that humans have made to a plot of land have attracted more geese than would naturally congregate there. In these cases, we can reduce human conflicts with geese simply by returning some of the natural features to the landscape. Modifying a landscape to minimize human conflict with geese means more than simply adjusting its existing features. To reduce the number of geese using a site you must replace the features that are attracting the geese with features that are less appealing to them.

• DO NOT FEED THE GEESE. Feeding compounds the overpopulation problem and invites disease. Efforts to frighten geese away can be thwarted if neighbors are feeding the geese next door or across the lake. If geese are being fed in the area, you might as well give up trying to scare them away.

If you are wishing to report an animal that is in a life threatening situation today, please call (303) 651-8500. For non-emergency information regarding animal related issues you may call (303) 651-8500 or email Animal Control.