§ 4-9. Rabies vaccination required.

(a)

Every owner of a dog, cat or ferret over the age of four (4) months shall cause such animal to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian with a U.S. Government-approved vaccine. Every owner of such animals shall cause said animals to be revaccinated against rabies with an approved animal rabies vaccine consistent with the requirements of state law and this chapter as they may be amended from time to time. A dog, cat, or ferret is exempt from vaccination against rabies if a licensed veterinarian has examined the animal and has certified in writing that, at the time, vaccination would endanger the animal's health because of its age, infirmity, disability, illness, or other medical considerations. An exempt animal must be vaccinated against rabies as soon as its health permits.

(b)

Evidence of such vaccination against rabies shall consist of a rabies vaccination certificate NASPHV Form 51, or an equivalent form approved by the board, signed by the administering veterinarian.

(c)

It shall be unlawful for the owner of an animal or anyone having custody or care of an animal to refuse or fail to have a dog, cat or ferret vaccinated against rabies as required in this chapter. It shall be unlawful for any licensed veterinarian who has administered a rabies vaccination to dogs, cats or ferrets in Marion County to refuse or fail to issue a copy of the rabies vaccination certificate to the animal owner and the department of animal services within fifteen (15) calendar days after the end of the month in which the vaccination was administered.

(Ord. No. 11-55, § 1, 10-18-11; Ord. No. 16-34, § 1, 10-4-2016)