As of January 28, the City of Leawood has ended its standard pet licensing program. Instead, Leawood will require all dogs and cats to have a microchip or vanity tag and be up to date on the rabies vaccination.
This change simplifies pet ownership and reduces administrative costs while focusing on responsible pet care and community safety.
Dogs and cats over six months old must either wear an identification tag or plate attached to their collar that is visible and contains at least a current telephone number of the current owner or caretaker, or have a microchip containing at least a current telephone number for the owner or caretaker. Identification tags must always be worn when the pet is outdoors or not in a vehicle.
A statement from the City of Leawood says that by dropping the licensing program, city staff can redirect their time toward managing business licenses and permits, which demand more attention and generate significant revenue.
The City will continue to provide animal control services and enforce all ordinances related to pet ownership.
Learn more at leawood.org.