We buy the pet-safe ice melt, we spend our time at dog-friendly bars, and we most certainly dress them up for Red Friday. As one of the US's most pet-friendly cities, KC has a reputation to uphold when it comes to our four-legged friends.

Considering Leawood's recent rollback on animal licensing, we figured it was time to em-bark on a deep dive into our city's codes dictating what's required of responsible pet owners.

Popping (pet) tags

No need to let Fido behind the wheel. These annual licenses for dogs, cats, and ferrets are mandatory so that KCMO officials can keep tabs on pet populations and contact you quicker if a lost furbaby is picked up by animal control.

Register at the city's shelter, any authorized veterinarians, or on the PetData website. Just keep in mind that it's not a one-and-done scenario —you'll need to repeat the $10 process yearly, or opt for a three-year pet license for $27.

What about my three-toed box turtle?

While we're impressed with your interest in Missouri's state reptile, the city isn't concerned with licensing animals other than cats, dogs, and ferrets. Though locals looking to escape lofty egg prices by raising their own chickens will need to meet a few requirements:

Plan to keep your farm-adjacent pets within 100-ft of your neighbors? You'll need to ask for their permission before registering for a special exception permit.
Flocks are limited 15 domestic fowl and 10 small animals, like rabbits, depending on age.
No cock-a-doodle-doos allowed — roosters that crow cannot be kept within 300 feet of any neighboring residences.

Animal control, shelters, and additional resources

KC Pet Project has been in charge of the city's animal control services since 2020, though that will likely change this spring. Until then, residents can still find everything from adoptable pets to wildlife services at its Swope Park campus.