Current and potential dog owners in Pennsylvania should expect to see some small changes going into the new year.

Dog licenses, a requirement for owning a dog in Pennsylvania, will increase by $2 to $8.70 for all dogs for annual licenses, and lifetime license fees will increase by one dollar to $51.70 for unneutered dogs, with discounts available for neutered dogs, and elderly or disabled owners.

Owners can avoid paying the increased prices by registering their dog licenses by January 21st. 

"I think it was a long time coming that some of the fees have been raised," said Ruth Thompson, Executive Director and Founder of the A.N.N.A. Shelter.

"I serve on the Dog Law advisory Board, and for years, we've been talking about raising dog licensing fees and I think appropriately so. I think the responsibility level has to be put back on the owner."

All dogs purchased in Pennsylvania will also require to be licensed at the time of adoption/purchase, or by the time they turn three months old.

Residents can get their dog licensed at the Erie County Tax Claim & Revenue office. City of Erie residents may be subject to additional fees.