§ 6-35. Rabies control and license.

(a)

Vaccination of dogs, cats and ferrets .

(1)

Every owner of a dog, cat or ferret over four months old shall, at the owner's expense, cause it to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.

(2)

Each animal shall be re-vaccinated every 12 months after the initial vaccination, unless the veterinarian uses a product that has a different effective time.

(3)

Upon vaccination by the veterinarian, a license tag to be placed on the collar shall also be provided to the owner. The license shall be good for the length of time the vaccination will last.

(4)

All dogs, cats and ferrets are required to wear the license, which shall be renewed at the time of each rabies vaccination.

(5)

A dog, cat or ferret may be exempt from vaccination against rabies if a licensed veterinarian has examined the animal and certifies in writing that the vaccination would endanger the animal's health because of its age, infirmity, disability, illness, or other medical considerations. An exempt animal shall be vaccinated against rabies as soon as its health permits.

(6)

Upon vaccination against rabies, the licensed veterinarian shall provide the owner with a tag to place on the animal's collar and a rabies vaccination certificate. Each veterinarian shall use Form 51, "Rabies Vaccination Certificate," of the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians or an equivalent certificate approved by the county.

(7)

One copy of the vaccination certificate shall be filed with the county animal control department, and one copy retained by the veterinarian.

(8)

The county's license fee as set by the board of county commissioners shall be remitted by the veterinarians at least monthly to the department of planning and development services office, or the entity that is under contract to operate the animal control department.

(9)

Owners of animals that require the rabies vaccination and license shall affix said license to the animal's collar for the period it is active.

(Ord. No. 2018-09 , 6-12-2018)