Dog licenses, vaccines, vets, shelters and dog parks
By J&H Digital Services LLCChecked Oct 23, 202612 sources
Every city in Ada County requires dogs to have and wear a license, and Nampa and Caldwell sell licenses too. Get a current rabies shot first, then buy the license from your city or the Idaho Humane Society. For a 24/7 pet emergency, WestVet in Garden City is open around the clock.
Boise requires rabies vaccination within 30 days of bringing a dog or cat 4 months or older into the city. The first shot is good for 12 months; boosters after that last up to 36 months. Bring your old vet records so a local vet can confirm.
Bring proof of spay or neuter from your vet to get the lower rate. Seniors 65 and older pay less in most cities (60 and older in Eagle). Multi-year licenses save money in Boise, Eagle and Kuna.
Dogs must wear the tag. A license helps animal control return a lost dog fast. A microchip is a good backup.
| City | Spayed or neutered | Unaltered | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boise | $19.75 | $42.25 | Idaho Humane Society |
| Eagle | $15 | $30 | Idaho Humane Society |
| Garden City | $15 | $20 | Idaho Humane Society |
| Unincorporated Ada County | $17.40 | $43.60 | Idaho Humane Society |
| Meridian | $9.42 | $9.42 | City Clerk, (208) 888-4433, or listed vet clinics |
| Kuna | $14 | $14 | City of Kuna |
| Star | $16 | $16 | City of Star |
| Nampa | $12 | $48 | Nampa Police Records |
| Caldwell | Lower rate with vet proof | Higher rate | Utility Billing, (208) 455-3000 option 1 |
Boise prices include a $3 processing fee. Boise unaltered dogs under 1 year pay $33.35. Senior rates are lower in every city listed. Caldwell fees are on the city's utility billing page. Source: Idaho Humane Society: dog licensing
Best for: Nights, weekends and serious injuries
Best for: Adoptions, licenses and lower-cost vet care
Vet clinic appointments by text at (208) 361-1799.
Best for: Lost dogs in Ada County
After hours, call police dispatch at (208) 377-6790.
Best for: Lost pets and adoptions in Canyon County
Best for: Year-round fenced areas
Dog Island at Ann Morrison Park, Military Reserve Dog Park, Morris Hill, Bowler, McDevitt Youth Sports Complex, Mariposa, Molenaar and Pine Grove parks. Some other parks allow off-leash dogs only during set seasons or hours.
Best for: Big open space for a long run
On most Ridge to Rivers trails, yes, under controlled off-leash rules: carry a leash, keep your dog within 30 feet and under voice control. Some trails and trailheads are always on-leash; check the trail map. The City of Boise fine is $81.50.
No. Dogs must be leashed unless signs say otherwise, and some parks ban dogs except on the Greenbelt path, such as Esther Simplot and Marianne Williams parks.
Not to Sandy Point from May 1 to Oct 1, even in your car.
Fees, rules and providers change. Confirm with the official source before you go.
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