Owning a pet in Reading comes with both joy and responsibility. Whether you’re caring for a dog or cat, looking to adopt, or seeking help with a lost pet, this guide covers the essential resources and services available to residents within the city.
Pet Licensing & Local Ordinances
All dogs three months and older must be licensed under Pennsylvania law. Licenses are issued annually or as lifetime options through the Berks County Treasurer’s Office.
In the City of Reading:
- Dogs must be leashed in public areas.
- Owners must clean up after their animals.
- Excessive barking or aggressive behavior may lead to enforcement actions.
Following local rules helps ensure safety for pets and neighbors alike.
Animal Control & Emergency Services
The Animal Rescue League (ARL) of Berks County is the primary animal control provider for the City of Reading. They respond to situations such as:
- Stray or aggressive animals
- Animal neglect or cruelty reports
- Public safety concerns involving pets
Contact the ARL at (610) 373-8830 during business hours for assistance. For emergencies involving human danger, call 911 first.
Adoption & Shelters
Reading is home to two major animal care organizations where you can adopt, foster, or support local animals:
Animal Rescue League of Berks County (ARL)
Address: 58 Kennel Road, Birdsboro, PA 19508
The ARL offers adoptions, fostering, education programs, and sheltering services for stray animals.
Humane Pennsylvania
Address: 1801 North 11th Street, Reading, PA 19604
This location offers veterinary services, pet adoptions, and support programs for pet owners across Berks County.
Low-Cost Veterinary Services
Both ARL and Humane Pennsylvania offer accessible pet care, including:
- Vaccinations and microchipping
- Spay/neuter services
- Basic wellness checks
Watch their websites and social media for pop-up clinics and appointment opportunities.
Lost & Found Pets
If your pet is missing:
- Contact the ARL — they often intake strays.
- Post in local groups like Facebook and Nextdoor.
If you find a pet, safely check for tags and contact the ARL for microchip scanning or shelter help.
Weather-Related Pet Safety: Code Blue & Code Red Ordinances
The City of Reading enforces two weather ordinances under Bill #22 (City Code Chapter 141, Section 205) to protect dogs during extreme conditions:
Code Blue
Declared when wind chill is 22°F or below or if there’s precipitation with temps under 32°F. Dog owners must bring their animals indoors except for brief, supervised bathroom or exercise breaks.
Code Red
Declared during high heat and humidity. Dogs must be brought indoors and not left outside unsupervised.
In both cases, if owners fail to comply:
- Dogs may be removed by an Animal Control Officer and impounded at ARL.
- Owners will have 48 hours after the code ends to claim their pets and must pay boarding fees.
To report violations during extreme weather, call:
- ARL: 610-373-8830 (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM)
- Reading Police Non-Emergency: 610-655-6116
