Image Credit: Contributed

It’s easier for dog owners in the Central Okanagan to save when they purchase or renew their dog license for 2017. And renewing can be quicker than ever.

That’s thanks to the ‘My Dog Matters’ App created for the Regional District of Central Okanagan. The App is believed to be the first developed for local governments in Canada and brings the opportunity to renew a dog license right to an owner’s mobile device.

Any dog owner with a current license who has provided their email address has received a welcome email that provides information on how they can download the ‘My Dog Matters’ App for free at the Google and iTunes app stores. They can also go online with their favourite web browser and download the App.

Approximately 19,000 dog owners in the Central Okanagan have licensed their pet and are now able to access the free App — that’s over 23,000 dogs that are licensed in the Central Okanagan.

Not only does it allow them to renew their license for 2017, but the App also contains their digital ‘My Dog Matters’ Reward Program card. Showing it at more than 50 participating businesses gives dog owners special discounts and services. Those with the new App can easily check participating retailer’s offers.

Of course, dog licenses can be renewed or new licenses purchased anytime online at www.regionaldistrict.com/doglicense. Dog owners may also renew in person at the RDCO office in Kelowna, the Regional Dog Pound (890 Weddell Pl.), at any local government office or the Kelowna branch of the SPCA.

Some dog owners have given early positive reviews to the new App including:  “Excellent, this is awesome.”, “Great ideas and service.” and “This makes licensing so easy.”

Communication Officer Bruce Smith says, “We’ve been working for the past few years to make dog licensing as easy and convenient as possible. This is especially good news for those owners who want to use electronic devices to renew, or who might head south early each year and are concerned about renewing their license before the February 28th deadline.  Now, with the’ My Dog Matters’ app, they can do it right on their mobile device or renew online through the Regional District website.” This makes it easier for the Regional District to communicate directly with licensed dog owners, saving taxpayers thousands of dollars in mailing costs.

February 28th is the last day for license renewals and new license purchases at the discounted rate of $20 for a dog that’s spayed or neutered and $60 if it isn’t. Starting March 1st owners renewing or purchasing a new license pay the regular fee of $40 for dogs that are spayed/neutered and $80 if not.

There’s plenty of information available about dog licensing and Responsible Dog Ownership in the Central Okanagan. 

Check out regionaldistrict.com/dogs for information about the Regional Dog service and what to do if you lose or find a dog.

News from © iNFOnews, 2017