Summary

This list is culled from pet license applications submitted to Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC), which serves nearly one million residents living in 25 cities and unincorporated communities throughout King County.

Story

It’s a popular time of year to add an adorable animal friend to the family. Many excited owners will be pondering the perfect name for their new pet this holiday season. So this is the ideal time for the 2017 Top 10 list of popular animal names!!

This list is culled from pet license applications submitted to Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC), which serves nearly one million residents living in 25 cities and unincorporated communities throughout King County.

“The rate of pet licensing in King County made solid gains in 2016 with more than 6,000 additional licensed pets, and we hope to make this year even better,” said Dr. Gene Mueller, Manager of RASKC. “Licensing matters, because getting more pets registered means families have the best chance, should their pet go missing, of being quickly reunited with their furry family members.”

If a licensed pet is lost, the finder can call the phone number on the pet’s tag and quickly get the owner’s contact information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Pets get a free ride home the first time they’re found, allowing owners to skip a trip to the shelter. Pet licenses also help fund RASKC and the important work it does.

“Licensing your pet is good for them and your family, but it’s about more than that,” said Metropolitan King County Council Vice Chair Reagan Dunn. “You’re doing your part so RASKC’s shelter can help thousands of other animals get well and find new homes. It’s important, humane work.”
2017’s top pet names

Now an annual tradition as the year comes to a close, RASKC staff compiled 2017’s most popular pet names in King County.

Popular names for new animals registered in 2017 include Oliver, Chloe, Pepper, and Jack. On the dog breed list, Labrador Retrievers are by far the most common type of dog licensed in King County, followed by Chihuahuas and Golden Retrievers.

Purchasing a pet license is easy

In addition to handling lost pets and injured animals, pet license fees contribute to RASKC’s other vital duties, including animal neglect and cruelty investigations, spay/neuter programs, pet adoption services, and other work to humanely and compassionately assist local animals.

“If you’re introducing a new pet to the family this holiday season, in addition to all the other necessities you’ll need to welcome them into your home, don’t forget a pet license,” Dunn said. “It’s easy to purchase one, it brings you additional piece of mind, and it’s the right thing to do.”

Pet licenses can be purchased online, or at more than 300 convenient locations around the county, including many city halls and QFC stores. Learn more at the Regional Animal Service of King County’s website.