What Do I Need To Do In Order To Legally Own My Dog?

In Iowa, it is important that your dog wears a collar, and has a rabies vaccinations tag attached to that collar. Once your dog has these two things, then it is considered legally yours.

Other Iowa Pet Law FAQs

Q: What Is The Relevant Law In Iowa That Governs Animal Law And Pets?
A: Iowa State Statute Sections 351.1 351.43 and Sections 717B.1 717E.3 address most pet and cruelty to pet issues.
Q: Someone Shot And Killed My Dog? Is This Legal?
A: The answer depends on whether or not your dog was wearing a collar with a rabies vaccination tag. If your dog was not wearing a collar with a rabies vaccination tag, … More
Q: Can Someone Ever Kill A Tagged Dog?
A: Yes. It is legal for any person to kill a tagged dog when the dog is caught in the act of worrying, chasing, maiming, or killing any domestic pet, farm animal, or … More
Q: Am I Responsible For The Damages That My Dog Causes?
A: Yes. You are liable to the injured person for all damages done by your dog, except where the injured person was committing a crime. In addition, if the dog injures … More
Q: At What Age Do I Need To Get My Dog Vaccinated?
A: All dogs over the age of six months must have their rabies vaccinations. A vaccination must be administered by a licensed veterinarian and a vaccination tag must be … More
Q: Do I Need To Vaccinate My Dog If I Am Just Traveling Through Iowa Or Taking My Dog To A Hunting Exhibition In Iowa?
A: No. If you are traveling or exhibiting a dog, and you are in Iowa for less than thirty days, then your dog is exempt from Iowa vaccination requirements.
Q: If A Veterinarian Thinks My Dog Has Rabies, Are They Going To Do Anything About It?
A: Yes. If a physician or veterinarian thinks that your dog has rabies then they have the duty to report it to local health officials.
Q: Whose Job Is It To Catch A Stray Dog?
A: A dog running at large without a rabies vaccinations collar or proof of one should be impounded by local health officials or law enforcement. If the owner can be … More
Q: What Are My Rights When My Dog Is Impounded?
A: When a dog is running at large without a collar, officials may take and impound your dog. Once your dog is impounded, the agency has to send an impoundment notice to … More
Q: If My Dog Bit Someone, Do I Need To Report It To The Police?
A: Yes. If your dog attacked any other person, then it is your duty to report the attack to law enforcement or local health officials.