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14 OUR YUCAIPA | JULY 2016 The city of Yucaipa requires all dogs to be licensed. New fees went into effect July 1. The current fee schedule is $24 for an altered or medically exempt dog, or $12 for senior owners, and $96 for unaltered dogs for a one year license. The price goes down when purchasing the licenses for longer periods of time and is $42 for an altered dog, $48 for medically exempt, $24 for senior owners, and $192 for 24 months, or $54, $72, $36 and $288 for 36 months. When you purchase a license, a metal tag is provided for the dogs collar with an ID number that can be tracked through both the city and county of San Bernardino data base. City Administrative Assistant Nancy Fry said it's important that all dogs are licensed so that if a dog bites someone there is proof that the dog is up to date on their rabies shot. "It's all part of being a responsible pet owner," she said. Owners have 15 days to license new dogs, and 30 days when moving into the area, she said. Already licensed dogs have 30 days after their current license expires to renew before accruing late fees. "Anybody can call and see when their license expired," Fry said. The county periodically conducts sweeps through the city, knocking on doors to make sure dogs are licensed and have current rabies shots. To get your dogs properly licensed, take all paperwork to the clerk at Yucaipa City Hall at 34272 Yucaipa Blvd. For more information call 797-2489. It's July and that means fireworks. And not just on the fourth. People seem to have an endless supply of noisemakers that they shoot off throughout the month, making some dogs panic. Here are some tips for making July easier on your dogs. Preparation: Arrange to have your dog in a place where there won't be loud fireworks displays — a friend's or relative's home or a doggie day care with which your dog is familiar. Accommodation: If you cannot take your dog to a place away from fireworks, then have a travel kennel at home for her to feel safe in. If you're not going to be home, have a friend or sitter there to keep your dog company and take her out to relieve herself every four hours. Acclimation: The best way to prepare your dog for fireworks is to make sure he's comfortable with the sound in advance. While this is a simple process, it can take time — possibly three or four months of playing the recorded sound of fireworks for your dog at an increasingly louder volume before he eats, before a walk, and before affection and play. Sedation: Your vet can prescribe medication or try a thundershirt to calm your dog during the fireworks. Communication: If you are going to be with your dog during the fireworks, sending the calming message that there is nothing to worry about will also help him to relax. Remember, though, while humans communicate with words, dogs communicate with energy, and will look to their pack leader for clues on how they should behave. getting your dog through The 4th of july Does Your Dog Have A License? Rosie stands in the shower when she's scared

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