Dog and cat owners in Cedar Park may now go online to purchase pet licenses, city staff said during the March 14 City Council meeting.

Cedar Park's partnership with PetData saves area pet owners the in-person trip to the Cedar Park Police Department previously required by the city. The online payment system also allows residents to register more than one pet at a time. A $1.95 service fee is charged to each transaction. In addition, residents may send a check through the mail.

Kimberly Painter, a Cedar Park city staff intern, said the cost to residents for a license remains unchanged: $5 for one year or $15 for three years for a spayed or neutered pet. For unaltered pets, owners must pay $10 for one year or $30 for three years. According to the website, the price difference is intended to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce pet overpopulation.

Pet licensing allows the city to keep up-to-date information on pets in case of incidents. The information can help reunite lost dogs and cats with their owners. All pets over 4 months old must be registered in Cedar Park.