•  Leashes are required in the City limits for dogs and cats. Although many feel their pets would never run off without a leash, animals can be very unpredictable around strangers or other animals if confronted. Also, if your pet is not on a leash if confronted by another non-leashed pet, you may not have any way to protect your pet if they are attacked by the other pet.

•   Pets cannot be leashed to a tree, bike rack, street sign or other item that is on public property. We commonly see this practice along the sidewalks in the downtown area. Again, animals can be unpredictable, to include being scared in your absence, and may react indifferently around a stranger who tries to pet them or simply walks too close to them. The last thing you want is your pet being taken by a stranger. Many businesses in our downtown area allow leashed pets into their business while you shop.

•  Barking Dogs: Please do your part to ensure that your dog is not consistently barking and bothering your neighbors. Many of the complaints we receive occur while the owner is away from home.

     Additionally, dogs and cats must have a city license and be vaccinated for rabies. Our animal control officer also reviews residences applying for a kennel license or who choose to raise hens.

How to License a Pet in the City of Bozeman

 Bozeman city code requires all chickens, dogs or cats over the age of six months be licensed. See Ordinance No. 1754. To license your pet, create an online account and apply for a license via our online pet license portal. If you own three or more cats or three or more dogs, you must apply for a Kennel license via the online kennel license portal.

 Each dog or cat over six months must also be vaccinated against rabies before obtaining a license. All area veterinarians offer these vaccinations and will supply you with a tag to put on your pet’s collar.

How to File an Animal Complaint

• Submit an online animal complaint through Reporting Form.
• For immediate or emergency assistance, call 406-582-2000. If you have a non-emergency/after hours issue, call 406-582-2249. An example would be reporting a location where a dog or dogs are unsafely off leash, a dog that barks continually or a home that does not appear to have chickens kept properly.
• Please have a detailed description of the location or address, giving your name, address and phone number. This is necessary if the animal control officer or police officer has to issue a citation to the pet owner.
• Providing the license plates of dog owners who leave the area after an offense can be helpful, including a good description of the owner.

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