New tag policy in Broward aims to cut costs and boost pet safety through technology
Broward County, Florida – An altered pricing system implemented by the Animal Care Division is changing how Broward County pet owners register their animal companions. The price to renew pet registration tags has changed as of May 1, providing an economic incentive for individuals to microchip their pets. Microchipped dogs and cats now incur an updated annual renewal fee of $25; owners of pets without a microchip will pay $55.
The modification is part of the County’s larger initiative to streamline the tag renewal procedure and promote responsible pet ownership. Doug Brightwell, Director of Broward County Animal Care, underlined that the new approach not only increases convenience for pet owners but also helps the general safety of animals.
“Animal Care has simplified how we charge for pet tags while continuing to prioritize safety, convenience, and responsible ownership,” said Doug Brightwell, Director of Broward County Animal Care, in a release. “This change supports our mission to protect pets while making it easier for owners to stay in compliance and avoid fines.”
The updated price system fits the County’s legal mandate that every dog and cat be registered and have active rabies vaccinations. Pet registration provides a visible badge that might be essential to reconnecting missing pets with their families. Microchipping offers extra security and significantly enhances the probability of a successful reunion should a pet go missing.
Apart from the cost change, the Tags for Life program—started earlier in 2025—stays in full force. Pet owners get one lasting identification tag under this program that lasts for the whole life of their pet. Owners just renew their registration yearly instead of receiving a new tag every year. This keeps legal compliance while reducing waste and removing the inconvenience of tag replacement.
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The County hopes more pet owners would microchip their pets under this revised approach. Unlike collars and tags that can come off or be taken off, microchips provide a permanent way for shelters and doctors to scan for identity. For individuals who have not yet made that decision, the motivation of less costs could help influence the decision they make.
Those who need to register or renew may do so online at PetTags.Broward.org, where more details on tag criteria, rabies vaccination policies, and microchipping options are also provided.
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Broward County Animal Care continues to play a central role in community outreach, adoption services, and low-cost spay/neuter programs. The department’s goal is based around keeping pets safe, healthy, and home—where they belong. These most recent modifications help the County to slightly simplify homeowners’ responsibility as proactive pet owners.
