§ 12-5-102. VACCINATION REQUIRED FOR DOGS, CATS, AND FERRETS.

(a)

In general. A person may not own, harbor, or keep a dog, cat, or ferret in the county over 4 months old unless the dog, cat, or ferret has been vaccinated in a manner and with the frequency to provide the animal with continuous protection against rabies.

(b)

Exhibiting vaccination certificate. On request of the Health Officer, a person who owns, keeps, or harbors a dog, cat, or ferret shall exhibit a current vaccination certificate or other evidence establishing that the animal has been vaccinated as required.

(c)

Citation. Subject to subsections (d) and (e) of this section, a person who does not provide satisfactory evidence of a current vaccination is subject to the civil and criminal penalties provided for in this article.

(d)

Waiver of civil penalties. The Health Officer may waive any civil penalties imposed under this section if the owner provides satisfactory evidence of a current vaccination within the time specified in any citation issued under this section.

(e)

Authority to waive the vaccination requirement. The Health Officer may waive the requirements for vaccination when, in the written opinion of a veterinarian, a vaccination is not advisable due to the physical condition of the animal.

(1988 Code, § 6-176) (Bill No. 3-00, § 4, 7-1-2004; Bill No. 63-01, § 1, 8-10-2001; Bill No. 72-03, §§ 29, 31, 7-1-2004; Bill No. 68-13, § 1, 12-29-2013)