As golden retrievers and Scotties sniffed politely, pet owners of Burien queued up to receive free pet licenses at Burien's first Music in the Park concert in Lake Burien School Park.

Recent changes in King County animal control policies spurred Burien to begin its own less expensive animal control services, including a city pet licensing program. Dr. Leslie Kasper, a local veterinarian, will shelter pets and provide other animal-related services.

According to Kasper, the city invited local vets, groomers, and kennel owners to a meeting, asking those interested in animal control work to submit proposals. She saw the position as a chance to use her skills to "give back to the community" and sent in a proposal.

"I have a strong community service desire," she said. A large facility, her clinic had plenty of room to harbor animals. The space has been divided into a room with cat cages and one with dog kennels, which is already partially occupied.

Besides sheltering pets, Kasper will coordinate animal welfare efforts and handle aggressive animal problems.

Asked for suggestions for preventing pet loss, Kasper said, "First and foremost, get them licensed." Additionally, "Spay and neuter are very important," as unaltered pets tend to roam farther afield.

Any pets that go outside should have collars, and micro chipping offers a second means of identification. Current vaccinations help keep cats and dogs healthy, at home or away.

"We're excited to be able to provide the level of service for our community," Kasper said, encouraging pet owners to take advantages of the free licenses the city will distribute through July.

At the licensing event, a long line of pet owners did just that. Kristen Lindeman, waiting with her dog Jazzy, called the program "a nice deal to get your pets licensed for free."

Ahead of Lindeman, Jane Martin expressed approval of the shift from county-level to city animal control.

"The more local you can make something, the better," she said.

For more information on pet licensing in Burien, visit http://www.burienwa.gov/index.aspx? NID=884