I think in most (if not all) states a license is required. When I got Nebo licensed, they did it down at the firestation at the beginning of the year. We had to have proof of a current rabies shot, if not, they did them for you. It was also less expensive if the dog was spayed/neutered. I think it was only around $8.

This obviously varies in different parts of the country...

I'd contact your city animal control, I'm sure they can give you some good info.

The first rabies shot your dog gets (usually around 4 months) lasts one year. After that they last 2-3 years, I think they have different kinds. If you are going to have your dog around other dogs, its a good idea to have *all* of the shots done as to prevent the spread of disease (to your dog and others).

I had Nebo's shots done about a week before we went to the park, and they weren't even due for another month...I'm paranoid and just wanted to have proof. I never did actually bring the papers to the park though, but he was wearing a rabies tag.

I think most dog parks DO require that your dog has current shots, they just don't have somebody sitting at the gate all day checking.