As pet ownership remains high across Henryetta, city officials are reminding residents that local ordinances regarding dogs – especially those concerning leashes, licensing and vaccination – are being actively enforced to promote public safety and responsible pet care.

— Leash Laws Protect Public Spaces Under the City of Henryetta’s municipal code, all dogs must be securely restrained at all times. This includes confinement to the owner’s property by a physical fence, leash or chain. When taken off property – even for a short walk – dogs must be on a leash or lead and under the control of a person at least 12 years old who can physically manage the animal.

Crucially, the city code prohibits tethering dogs in a way that allows them to approach within eight feet of public areas, such as sidewalks, parks, streets or entrances to public buildings, when the leash is fully extended. This provision is designed to prevent dogs from running into public paths or startling pedestrians.

— Annual Licensing & Proof of Vaccination The City of Henryetta also mandates that all dogs must be licensed annually. Dog owners must obtain a city-issued tag, which costs $6 and is renewable every January. To receive a tag, pet owners must present documentation proving that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies. The city-issued tag must then be affixed to the pet’s collar and worn at all times.

If a dog is picked up by city animal control officers, proof of rabies vaccination is required before the animal can be released back to its owner.

— Spay/Neuter Requirements & Intact Permits In addition to the licensing requirement, the city enforces a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance. All dogs and cats over six months of age must be spayed or neutered unless the owner has obtained an “intact animal permit” from the city. This regulation aims to reduce stray animal populations and promote healthier pet communities.

— A Community-Wide Responsibility

“We know people love their pets, but keeping them leashed and licensed isn’t just about following rules – it’s about community safety,” said a city spokesperson. “Loose dogs can pose risks to children, the elderly and other animals, even if they’re friendly.”

City officials urge residents to be proactive: confirm that fences and tethers meet code standards, check that city tags are current and update rabies vaccinations as needed.

— Enforcement & Penalties

Violations of Henryetta’s animal control ordinances may result in citations, fines or the impoundment of the animal. In serious cases involving aggressive or repeatedly loose dogs, owners may be required to appear in municipal court.

City leaders emphasize that the ordinance is not meant to be punitive but preventive – with the goal of maintaining peace and safety across Henryetta neighborhoods.

Residents can apply for or renew pet licenses at Henryetta City Hall. For questions or more information, they are encouraged to contact the city’s Animal Control office directly.

For a complete list of city ordinances, visit cityofhenryetta. com.