Battle Creek pet licensing
Why license?
In accordance with state and local laws, pet licenses are mandatory in the City of Battle Creek. In fact, licenses are mandatory in nearly every community across North America. Why? Because licenses help keep pets and the communities they live in safe. DocuPet was brought on board to simplify and improve pet licensing to benefit not only pet owners like you, but the entire community. DocuPet makes it easy for the City of Battle Creek to deliver a successful pet licensing program with a streamlined software and management solution that makes licensing a breeze for pet owners and administrators alike.
What will you need?
Licensing your pet will require specific information and proof. Having these items at the ready allows for the fastest experience. You have the option to upload a document as a saved or scanned file, or you may take a photo directly from your device on our upload page.
Payment
We securely process payment online and accept all major credit and debit cards as forms of payment.
Documents
Spay/Neuter proof
This document is required to qualify for the discounted rate and is only needed once and will be saved to your pet’s profile upon upload for future renewals. This proof declaring that your pet has been spayed or neutered may be in the form of a statement or receipt from the veterinarian, shelter, or clinic that performed the procedure.
Rabies vaccination proof
This document may be in the form of a Rabies Vaccination Certificate that has been signed by a veterinarian or certified professional. It is the law that pets must be up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations, so new documents will need to be uploaded to your pets profile as they receive their booster shots.
How to license
Online
The fastest and easiest way to license or renew is right here. You'll create a profile for your pet, upload any necessary documents, process your license registration, and receive purchase confirmations via email. Payment can be made using a credit card or Visa/Mastercard debit card. Each year, you just need to log in to your existing account and renew - it's super easy!
In-person
In person licensing is available at the following location(s) however it's important to know you will still receive your tag in the mail:
Don't forget to check hours of operation, appointment policies, and accepted payment methods prior to heading out.
City of Battle Creek
10 N. Division St. Battle Creek, MI 49014
If you opt to license via snail mail - keep in mind processing your registration will take a lot longer!
Make sure you complete the below form in full and that it is free of any errors otherwise your registration may not be successfully processed. The fine print is there for a reason so keep an eye out for accepted payment methods, who the check should be made out to, where it should be mailed, and any required supporting documentation.
Pet license form
Phone
If you're unable to complete your pet's license online, you can contact our Customer Care team for assistance. Please note that licenses are primarily designed to be completed online, and phone support is intended for troubleshooting or special circumstances.
You must have up-to-date spay/neuter or rabies documentation on file. We can accept credit cards and Visa/Mastercard debit cards for payment.
DocuPet Customer Care: 1-877-239-6072
Hours of Operation:Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM EST (excluding holidays)Sunday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM EST
License fees & details
Pet licenses are required for all dogs and cats living in the City of Battle Creek. Licenses are available for 1 or 3 year terms and must be renewed prior to the expiration date. You will receive reminders from us about upcoming license expirations via mail, phone, and email.
| Dog Licenses | 1 Year Term | 3 Year Term |
|---|---|---|
| Intact | $20.00 | N/A |
| Spayed/Neutered | $5.00 | $12.00 |
| Cat Licenses | 1 Year Term | 3 Year Term |
|---|---|---|
| Intact | $20.00 | N/A |
| Spayed/Neutered | $5.00 | $12.00 |
- A replacement the City of Battle Creek tag is available for a $5.00 fee.
- A valid rabies certificate is required to complete the licensing process. You must upload or present your certificates at time of purchase.
- A spay/neuter certificate is required to qualify for the discounted rate.
Frequently asked questions
HELP DESK
Still have a question that you have not been able to answer?
Visit our Help Desk for more information: https://docupetinc.zendesk.com/hc/en-us
LICENSING OPTIONS, DATES, AND LOCATIONS
What is the refund policy on licenses?
No refunds are provided on licenses purchased regardless of circumstances.
Why does my pet's license expire on their rabies vaccination expiration date?
In the City of Battle Creek, a pet license may not be valid at any time that a pet's rabies vaccination is not current.
When does my pet's license expire?
Licenses expire exactly 1 or 3 full years from the license start date, depending on the license term selected. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new license will start the day after expiration, not on the date of purchase.
Do licenses need to be renewed annually?
Licenses are required to be renewed prior to the expiration date each year.
When can I renew my pet's license?
You may renew your pet's license within 45 days of your pet's current license expiration date. If you renew prior to the upcoming expiration date, your pet's new license will start the day after expiration, not on the date of purchase.
How can I license my pets?
Please ensure you have all the required documentation in order to licence your pet. If you have all the records you need to proceed you can license your pet online, or in person at the City of Battle Creek located at 10 N. Division St.
If this is your first time licensing a pet in Battle Creek, click here to learn more.
If you already have an account with us or have ever licensed a pet with the City of Battle Creek click here to learn more.
Where can I license in person?
You may license in person at City of Battle Creek located at 10 N. Division St.
PROGRAM AND PARTNERSHIP
Why does the system say my address is not valid?
You may have entered your address incorrectly or we may not have your address in the address database for your community. Please double-check all spelling and ensure you are using the abbreviated form for your street type ex. St instead of Street. You may contact the City of Battle Creek directly if you believe you reside within their jurisdiction but your address is not being accepted by the system.
ACCOUNT UPDATES
Does my license transfer if I am moving?
If you are moving, please be sure to update your address by logging into your online account and navigating to your Profile Settings page. Even though you are moving, you’ll still be able to keep your pet's tag and access your pet's online account. However, your current license may not be valid in the new community you are moving to. Please get in touch with the pet licensing provider in the new community you are moving to in order to find out more information.
How do I notify DocuPet that my pet has passed away?
We're sorry for your loss. You can update a pet's profile via your online account or we can take care of it for you if you call 1-877-239-6072 or email info@docupet.com. Our customer service line is answered from 9:00AM to 8:00PM EST, Monday through Friday.
FEES AND FINES
My pet qualifies for the service animal rate. What do I do?
Please visit the City of Battle Creek in person if you are qualifying for this rate for the first time. Once the team there verifies your designation you will be able to renew online in future years.
Is there a discount for licensing multiple pets?
No, there is no discount for licensing multiple pets. Each pet will be charged the appropriate licensing fee.
What is the fine for not licensing a pet?
The fine for failing to license a pet is $50.00 for a first offense, $100 for a second offense, and $200 for a third.
I am a veteran. Are there any special rates?
The City of Battle Creek does not offer any special rates for veterans. Please call 269-966-3311 directly to discuss.
What is the processing fee?
A processing fee of $2.00 per license product applies to all online orders.
What is the fee for licensing?
Visit this page for licensing options and fees: Licensing Fees
Can I receive a seniors discount?
There are no senior rates to license your pet.
CITY INFORMATION AND CITY ORDINANCES
Where can I find information about the pet licensing ordinance/bylaw?
Visit this page for information on licensing ordinances/bylaws: Battle Creek Code
What species are required to be licensed?
The following species are required to be licensed: Dogs and Cats.
Who do I call if there’s an emergency involving dogs? (dog attack, loose dog, etc.)
Please get in touch with the City of Battle Creek or call 269-966-3311.
Is there a limit to the number of pets I'm allowed to have?
Limits of the number of pets permitted per dwelling vary but in Battle Creek the limit is:
3 dogs, 5 cats
DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
I just adopted my pet, but the information on the rabies vaccination certificate does not match my information. What should I do?
If the rabies vaccination certificate does not match your information because the pet was adopted, we recommend contacting the City of Battle Creek directly so their team can review and approve the documentation. We suggest reaching out to confirm that you have all required documentation, which may include adoption paperwork, in order to license your pet.
My pet has been spayed/neutered since I last purchased their pet license. How do I qualify for the discounted rate?
If your pet has been sterilized since their last license, you will need to update their online profile to reflect these changes. Once updated, you will automatically be charged the correct rate when you renew their license. If licensing at a vendor location, you will need to inform the clerk about the change in your pet’s status.
IMPORTANT! In order to receive the discounted rate, you will need to provide proof that your pet has been spayed or neutered. During the licensing process, you are required to upload a legible digital file of the certificate. If you cannot locate your certificate, please contact your vet for assistance. If you already have an account click on the “View Submitted Documents” button on the right to upload and submit a file.
Where can I obtain a copy of my pet’s rabies or spay/neuter document?
If you can’t locate the document you received after the procedure was done, you will need to contact your vet to obtain your pet's records. Be sure to specify any and all pets you require documentation for.
Once you’ve got the paperwork in your hands, take a look to ensure:
- The document provided is the right type of proof required.
- Pet and pet owner account data matches your own.
- The document is clear and legible.
Why do I have to upload a rabies and spay/neuter document for my pet?
To license your pet, you will be required to show proof that the pet's rabies vaccination is current. Documentation is also required to verify that a pet has been spayed or neutered and must be provided in order to receive the discounted rate. Requiring documentation ensures that provided pet information is accurate, which is critical for identification and safety reasons.
Can I still license my pet if I don’t have the required documentation?
Yes! A temporary license can be issued while you gather your documents. Just follow one of the licensing methods listed above to get started. Please note that proof must be submitted before the temporary license expires, otherwise a new license will need to be purchased.
How long does it take for my pet’s documents to be reviewed?
Documentation uploaded via the online system is reviewed within two to three business days.
What are acceptable documentation types?
A rabies proof is required to prove that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies. A rabies proof identifying your pet as spayed/neutered or a spay/neuter proof may be accepted as documentation of sterilization.