Rabies Vaccinations For Dogs And Cats

Under current law, local governments may determine whether to require pet owners to vaccinate their pets against rabies through a licensing program. Additionally, when public health and safety are at risk, county or district health departments may order all dogs, cats, other pet animals, or other mammals in the county or district to be vaccinated against rabies.

The bill imposes a statewide requirement that all dogs and cats that are 4 months old or older be vaccinated against rabies. Dog and cat owners must ensure that their animals are vaccinated within 90 days after assuming ownership. A licensed veterinarian must administer the vaccination in accordance with the current version of the 'Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control' using a vaccine that is licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture for use in those species and must issue to the owner a rabies vaccination certificate and a tag to be attached to the animal's collar.

(Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)