Animals

Visit the Animal Control page for information on the Police Department's Animal Control Program.

Dog Licenses

As of January 1, 2019, the city utilizes PetData Inc. to process all dog licenses. Their website will take you to the City of West Richland's dog licensing page.

Very Important: If you received a renewal notice in the mail, you will want to make sure to use the reference number on your renewal notice when you begin the licensing process. See the diagram for more information. This will give take you to your pet's current record on file. If you need assistance or have questions, you can call Pet Data at 866-297-7763 or City Hall at 509-967-3431.

For Petdata

The City requires dog owners to license dogs over 7 months old and within 30 days of acquiring the dog. If you have a current dog license, you will receive a reminder notice in January. When renewing, you may need to provide a current rabies certification and if applicable, and proof of spay or neuter.

Animal Disturbance Noises are Prohibited

West Richland Municipal Code 6.08.030 states, "Animal Disturbance Noises - Prohibited. The keeper of any animal shall not keep or maintain within the city any animal which by frequent repetitive or continuous howling, yelping, barking, braying, whinnying, crying, cackling, crowing, or the making of any other noises that annoys or disturbs the peace and repose of persons of reasonable sensitivities residing, owning property, or employed within a district zoned for residential uses.

Noise from animals which during the hours of 10 pm and 7 am may be heard 50 feet from the perceived property line shall be deemed excessive and in violation of this section. During the hours of 7 am and 10 pm this distance shall be extended to 100 feet. A violation of the section may still occur if the noise is heard at distances less than that stated, given the proximity of houses or structures to one another, or location of the source animal to the location of the complaint.

More information and/or the procedure for enforcement can be found in Title 6 of the West Richland Municipal Code.

Visit the Report a Problem page to report violations.

Pet Ownership - A Message to West Richland Pet Owners

Pet owners are responsible for the actions of their pets!

Pet Owners Must:

•    Always keep your animal on your property or under your direct control
•    Clean up after your pet's fecal waste
•    Keep your animal on a leash or at heel (within 2 feet of the owner)
•    Keep your animals from disturbing the peace
•    License your dog within the city
•    All dogs over the age of 7 months must be vaccinated for rabies

Failure to comply with the above may result in a citation.

Animal Care & Safety

Please keep your pets cool this summer by following these steps: 

  • You must have a wind-proof and moisture-proof shelter for your outside pet.
  • You must have food and fresh water available at all times. Replace water daily.
  • Your pet must be dry and comfortable.
  • If it is hot for you, it is hot for your pet, too.

Volunteer to Foster an Animal

Have room in your home for a temporary visitor? Consider temporarily fostering an animal to promote social skills!

The following are some considerations:

  • Fostering is purely a volunteer function
  • Fostering is temporary and beneficial for all involved
  • Socializing an animal will make it adoptable

Please contact the Animal Control Officer at 509-967-7112 for more information on animal inquiries.