Liberal MO Police

05/21/2026

Anyone know this dog?

05/19/2026

I have learned that all the information in the dog registration form is on the vaccination certificate. So if you just want to bring that down, we will make a copy and give you a tag. Also, tags are in. If you have already filled out a form, I'll bring a tag to your house.

05/18/2026

OWNER / KEEPER INFORMATION Owner Name: ___________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________ City: ____________________ State: ______ Zip: ___________ Phone Number: _________________________________________ Email Address: _________________________________________ ANIMAL INFORMATION Animal #1 Type: ☐ Dog ☐ Cat Name: _________________________________________________ Breed: ________________________________________________ Color/Markings: ________________________________________ S*x: ☐ Male ☐ Female Spayed/Neutered: ☐ Yes ☐ No Age: ___________________ Rabies Tag Number (Vet Issued): _________________________ Microchip Number (if applicable): _______________________ VACCINATION INFORMATION Veterinarian Name: _____________________________________ Veterinary Clinic: _____________________________________ Rabies Vaccination Date: ________________________________
Rabies Vaccine Expiration Date: _________________________ Certificate Number: ____________________________________ ☐ Copy of Rabies Certificate Attached CITY REGISTRATION City Registration Number: _______________________________ City Tag Number Issued: _________________________________ Date Registered: _______________________________________ Registration Expiration Date: April 30, 20____ Received By: ___________________________________________ OWNER CERTIFICATION I certify that the information provided above is true and correct. I understand that City ordinance requires all dogs and cats within the City of Liberal to: 1. Be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian; 2. Have a current rabies vaccination certificate on file with the City Clerk; 3. Wear the City-issued registration tag continuously on the animal’s collar; and 4. Maintain current registration annually. I understand that failure to comply with these requirements may result in citations or penalties under City ordinance. Owner/Keeper Signature: _________________________________ Date: ___________________

05/18/2026

Lots of overachievers in turning in the rabies registration forms. I still have not received the tags yet, but I am expecting them any day now. When I get them, I'll bring them to you. I've attached the form; however, if all this information is already on your documentation from the vet, just send me a picture of that, and I will get you a tag. I'm building a dog database. In case your dog is lost, I will be able to return it to you. If you live outside the city limits and want your dog on this list, that is fine. I will get you a tag, but I am going to limit it to the immediate area, such as the school district.

05/08/2026

ENFORCEMENT OF CITY TAGS FOR DOMESTICATED ANIMALS

The City of Liberal would like to remind residents that the City’s rabies vaccination and registration ordinance for dogs and cats is NOT a new ordinance. However, it has not been actively enforced in recent years.

Due to the recent dog attack incident, the City has reviewed its animal ordinances and will begin strictly enforcing all applicable animal regulations in an effort to improve public safety and responsible pet ownership within our community.

Beginning on May 18th, residents may begin registering their dogs and cats at City Hall. We have ordered registration tags and will begin issuing them as registrations are completed.

Residents will have 30 days to obtain and attach the new City registration tags before enforcement of the tag requirement begins. However, all dogs and cats are already required by ordinance to be vaccinated against rabies, and vaccination requirements will be strictly enforced immediately.

At this time, there is NO charge to register your dog or cat.

To register your animal, you must provide proof of current rabies vaccination from a licensed veterinarian. Once registered, a City-issued tag must be securely attached to the animal’s collar and worn at all times while within the city limits.

We will also post the registration form online for anyone who wishes to fill it out prior to coming to City Hall.

The ordinance states:

“The owner or keeper of any dog or cat in the City of Liberal is hereby required to have such animals vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian and to procure a certificate of such vaccination from the veterinarian and to present such certificate to the City Clerk on or before May first (1st) of each year; and the City Clerk shall register such certificate, which registration shall remain in force until the April thirtieth (30th) next following said registration; and upon registration, the City Clerk shall issue a tag evidencing the registration and certificate of vaccination, and the owner or keeper shall securely attach the tag so issued to a collar to be worn continuously by the animal for which the tag was issued. It shall be unlawful for the owner or keeper of any dog or cat to permit such animal to remain in the City of Liberal unless wearing the tag above provided for herein.”

We appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we work to improve safety for both residents and animals in our community.

05/05/2026

Anyone missing this bike?

04/29/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Subject: Clarification on Dog at Large Complaints and Citation Requirements

The Liberal Police Department would like to clarify procedures regarding reports of dogs running at large within the city.

We understand that residents often submit photographs of dogs they believe to be in violation of local ordinances. While these photos can be helpful in identifying potential issues, a photograph alone is not sufficient to issue a citation.

In order for a citation to be legally issued, an officer must either personally observe the violation and make contact with the owner, or obtain a statement from the reporting party who is willing to provide testimony in court. This includes the individual who took the photograph, as their direct testimony is necessary to support the case.

Submitting a photo without being willing to provide a statement and appear in court does not meet the legal requirements needed for enforcement action.

We encourage residents to continue reporting concerns, but ask that you be prepared to provide additional information and, if necessary, participate in the court process should you wish for enforcement to proceed.

These procedures are in place to ensure that all citations are supported by proper evidence and due process.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Liberal Police Department

04/29/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Subject: Animal Vaccination Compliance and Enforcement of Dog Ordinances

The Liberal Police Department is reminding all residents of the importance of maintaining proper vaccinations and identification for their pets, particularly dogs, in accordance with city ordinances.

All dogs are required to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Proof of vaccination must be maintained, and the vaccination tag issued by the veterinarian must be affixed to the dog at all times. This tag serves as immediate verification that the animal is properly vaccinated and helps protect both the public and the animal.

Officers will begin checking for proof of vaccination and proper tagging anytime they come into contact with pets or pet owners during calls for service or routine interactions. Failure to provide proof of vaccination or failure to have the appropriate tag affixed may result in citations.

Additionally, all dog-related ordinances will be strictly enforced. This includes, but is not limited to, leash requirements, nuisance violations, and regulations regarding dangerous or prohibited animals.

These measures are in place to ensure public safety, reduce the risk of rabies exposure, and promote responsible pet ownership within our community.

We appreciate the cooperation of all residents in keeping Liberal a safe place for both people and animals.

Liberal Police Department

04/29/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Subject: Public Safety Reminder – Proper Handling of Animals in Bite Incidents

The Liberal Police Department would like to remind the public of important safety considerations when dealing with aggressive animals, particularly in situations where a person has been bitten or attacked.

While we understand that these incidents can be frightening and may require immediate action to protect yourself or others, we ask that, when possible, individuals avoid shooting an animal in the head. This is especially important in cases where the animal may need to be tested for rabies.

Rabies testing requires intact brain tissue in order to produce accurate results. Damage to the head can make testing difficult or, in some cases, impossible. This can create serious complications for the victim, who may then need to undergo additional medical treatment as a precaution.

If you are forced to defend yourself from an attacking animal, your safety comes first. However, if circumstances allow, please consider alternative methods that do not damage the head.

We encourage residents to contact local law enforcement whenever possible to handle aggressive or dangerous animals. Proper handling helps ensure the safety of all parties involved and allows for appropriate medical evaluation when needed.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued commitment to community safety.

Liberal Police Department

04/24/2026

The Liberal Police Department would like to provide an update regarding our current animal ordinance.

At this time, we are aware of questions and concerns related to breed-specific regulations and how they align with Missouri state law. We take these matters seriously and want to ensure that our ordinances are both lawful and enforceable.

Our City Attorney is currently out of town. Upon his return, we will be meeting with him to review the ordinance in detail and determine any necessary updates or changes to remain in compliance with state law.

Until that meeting takes place, enforcement related to this specific issue will be placed on hold.

We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we work through this process carefully and correctly. Further updates will be provided once we have met with legal counsel.

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04/23/2026

The City would like to remind residents that our animal control ordinance regarding certain dog breeds will be actively enforced.

The following are included under the ordinance:

• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• American Pit Bull Terrier
• Any dog exhibiting distinguishing characteristics that substantially conform to the standards established by the American Kennel Club (A.K.C.) or United Kennel Club (U.K.C.) for the breeds listed above

Please be aware that breed identification is not limited to name alone, but also includes physical characteristics consistent with these standards. Official A.K.C. and U.K.C. breed standards are on file and available for review in the City Clerk’s Office.

Residents who own dogs that fall under this ordinance are encouraged to review the requirements and ensure they are in compliance.

Our goal is to maintain a safe environment for all citizens while providing clear and fair enforcement of city regulations.

If you have questions, please contact City Hall

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