The countdown is on to register your pet. Failure to do so will have consequences.

If you live in Omaha or Sarpy County and don't register your pet by Wednesday, March 15, you're in violation and you can face a late fee.

Your pet has to have a current rabies vaccination in order to obtain his license. However don't avoid licensing if your pet is due and you can't get in to see your veterinarian before Wednesday. You can license him this week and avoid the penalty. You'll then have 30 days to get your rabies vaccination.

Simply send in your license payment and information through the mail, postmarked by March 15. Or bring it to the shelter, or renew on line just as you would if his vaccination was current.

To license online, grab your licensing statement. It shows your animal's ID number and license number. Go to the Humane Societys website. Once you plug the numbers in, you can pay by credit card and you're done. It's easy, you'll have immediate confirmation and you don't have to stand in line.

If you are licensing a pet for the first time you can do that online too. Just follow the cues for a new license no matter how you license your payment will be processed on time and your information will be updated, you just won't get your permanent license satus until you provide proof of rabies. Then, once your pet is vaccinated, your vet can send the records or you can bring them in to the shelter.

Remember a license is one of the best ways to ensure that if your dog or cat gets out, you can get him back. Licenses can be tracked across county and state lines.

And by uploading your license yearly you update your contact information so you can be reached if your animal ends up a stray. It's smart, it's peace of mind, and it's the law.

Read the rest here:

The clock is ticking on getting your pet licensed - WOWT