Should NH repeal dog licensing?

Rep. Robert Hull is sponsoring HB 1576, a bill that would repeal the $7 annual license for dogs.

The license fee is shared between municipalities and the state. The state portion of the fee funds a low-cost spay-neuter program and the New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

Bill supporters argue that the original purpose of dog licensing was to create a fund to reimburse livestock owners for any damage done to livestock by dogs. Since this is no longer a notable problem in New Hampshire, bill supporters argue that dog licensing is an unjustified tax on pet ownership.

“From a personal perspective, I resent being taxed on my best friend,” said bill co-sponsor Rep. Keith Ammon at the bill hearing. 

Opponents of the bill argue that dog licensing provides an important incentive for dog owners to vaccinate their pets against the spread of disease. A rabies vaccine is required for dog licensure.

Others argue that the benefit of New Hampshire’s low-cost spay-neuter program and the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory are well worth $7 a year from dog owners.

Do you support dog licensing? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

UPDATE: Read our Citizen Voices℠ report and find out where New Hampshire stands on this issue.