RABIES LAWS IN THE 50 UNITED STATES as of 1/3/10

RABIES LAWS IN THE 50 UNITED STATES as of 1/3/10
 

1. ALABAMA http://www.waaytv.com/Global/story.asp?S=11517386
 
Alabama Rabies Vaccinations Drop to Every Three Years
Posted: Nov 16, 2009 08:59 PM EST  
Alabama pet owners are no longer required to have their pets vaccinated for rabies annually.
That's because a new law allows owners to only have them vaccinated every years.Alabama has historically required an annual vaccine even though vaccines labeled for three years have existed for decades - and have been used in other states.
You can still have your dog, cat, or ferret vaccinated every year, contact your veterinarian to figure out the best option.
The Huntsville Times http://www.al.com/news/huntsvilletimes/local.ssf?/base/news/125836655223110.xml&coll=1
Alabama last state to OK rabies shots every 3 years
Monday, November 16, 2009
By Yvonne Betowt
Times Staff Writer yvonne.betowt@htimes.com
Vaccine that lasts 36 months has been available for decades
Alabama recently became the last of the 50 states to enact a law allowing pet owners to vaccinate their dogs and cats for rabies every three years rather than every year.
The bill, sponsored by state Sen. Larry Dixon, R-Montgomery, was signed into law in May by Gov. Bob Riley. It went into effect Aug. 1.
It passed the Senate unanimously and the House "more than overwhelmingly," said Dixon, who was approached by the state veterinary association about sponsoring the bill.
"It seems so ridiculous we had been trying two years to bring it up for a vote," said Dixon in a telephone interview. "There was just no need (to have a law requiring annual vaccinations) when a three-year vaccine was available. The vets I talked with just didn't think it was a good idea to bring an animal in every year for a rabies shot. It is the only animal vaccine ordered by state law."
Dog and cat owners now have the option of getting either an annual or three-year rabies vaccination for their dogs and cats. Ferrets must still be vaccinated annually because no three-year vaccine is available for them at this time.
The new law states that veterinarians may use rabies vaccine "in accordance to its label" in a letter written to state vets by Dr. Dee Jones, Alabama Public Health Veterinarian.
Alabama has historically required an annual vaccine even though vaccines labeled for three years have existed for decades, said Jones.
"The state is now recognizing and accepting the use of a three-year vaccine that is labeled for such," he wrote. "However, it is worth belaboring that the state is not mandating the use of three-year vaccine. The decision to use a one-year or a three-year rabies vaccine lies entirely with the veterinarian and the animal owner."
Dr. Karen Sheppard, director of Huntsville Animal Services, said the three-year vaccine is "just an option."
"We don't want the vaccine statistics to go down," she said. "Animals are the major linkage between humans and wildlife. Most people don't have much contact with wildlife, but their pets do."
Sheppard said while she is not against the three-year vaccine, she believes there is "nothing wrong with once-a-year" rabies vaccinations.
 
2. ALASKA – Alaska Administrative Code Title 7 (7 AAC 27.020) Control of animal diseases transmissible to humans http://www.touchngo.com/lglcntr/akstats/aac/title07/chapter027/section020.htm 
(b) Rabies Vaccination. The standards for animal rabies vaccination are the following:
(1) the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control, 2002, prepared by the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, Inc. as amended from time to time is adopted by reference to govern the use of animal rabies vaccines

 
3. ARIZONA -- Arizona Revised Statutes Annotated Title 11, Chapter 7 Article 6 Animal Control 11-1010 http://www.azleg.state.az.us/FormatDocument.asp?inDoc=/ars/11/01010.htm&Title=11&DocType=ARS 
11-1010. Anti-rabies vaccination; vaccination and license stations
A. Before a license is issued for any dog, the owner or a veterinarian must present a paper or electronic copy or telefacsimile of the vaccination certificate signed by a veterinarian stating the owner's name and address, and giving the dog's description, date of vaccination, manufacturer and serial number of the vaccine used and date revaccination is due.
 
4. ARKANSAS -- Updated Rabies Control Act Allows Longer Vaccination Intervals http://www.todaysthv.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=95265&catid=2
 
The updated Rabies Control Act has new rules passed by the State Board of Health that allow for a longer interval between rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats. The new rules will become effective January 1, 2010.
 
The updated Rabies Control Act was passed by the Arkansas State Legislature in 2009 (Act 159). Under the new rules, all dogs and cats four months of age or older will be required to have a rabies vaccination given by a licensed veterinarian. Currently no age limit is specified for initial vaccinations.
Regardless of the age of the animal at initial vaccination, a booster vaccination should be administered one year later (as recommended by every licensed vaccine currently available).
Following the booster, dogs and cats should be placed on a vaccination schedule according to the labeled duration of the vaccine used. Both one- and three-year duration vaccines are available. There is also a four-year vaccine for cats.
If a veterinarian administers a one-year licensed rabies vaccine, the pet will need to be revaccinated one year later. If a three-year vaccine is chosen, the pet will be required to be revaccinated three years later.
Pet owners should discuss the options of a one-year or three-year vaccine with their veterinarian, with the decision made in the best interest of the pet.
Rabies primarily exists in wildlife. In Arkansas, the host animals are skunks and bats, but any mammal can become infected if bitten by a rabid skunk or bat.
According to Dr. Susan Weinstein, State Public Health Veterinarian, the biggest issue for our state is that many pet owners do not get their dogs or cats vaccinated at all. Rural dogs and cats, especially those that live outdoors, are most commonly exposed to rabid animals in the wild. These same outdoor dogs and cats are also the least likely to be vaccinated.
All dogs and cats should be taken to a licensed veterinarian to be vaccinated for rabies. Due to the routine physical contact between people and domestic pets, it is especially important to get these pets vaccinated in order to reduce rabies exposure to humans.
For additional information on updates to the new Act 159, go to the Department of Health website. You can review changes in rabies vaccination requirements in the Rules Pertaining to Rabies Control (link is PDF).
 
5. CALIFORNIA -- California Department of Public Health Compendium of U.S. Licensed Animal Rabies Vaccines -- 2008, and Their Application in Animals Under the California Rabies Control Program  http://www.cdph.ca.gov/HealthInfo/discond/Documents/2008_CA_rabies_vaccine_compendium.pdf
 
Division 14 FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL CODE
SECTION 30801-30807  http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/displaycode?section=fac&group=30001-31000&file=30801-30807
 
30801.(d) In addition to the authority provided in subdivisions (a),
(b), and (c), a license may be issued, as provided by this section,
by a board of supervisors for a period not to exceed three years for
dogs that have attained the age of 12 months, or older, and who have
been vaccinated against rabies. The person to whom the license is to
be issued pursuant to this subdivision may choose a license period as
established by the board of supervisors of up to one, two, or three
years. However, when issuing a license pursuant to this subdivision,
the license period shall not extend beyond the remaining period of
validity for the current rabies vaccination.
 
6. COLORADO -- Colorado Rabies Control Law Title 25, Article 4, Part 6 http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/dc/zoonosis/rabies/rabiesstatute.PDF
 
Section 25-4-607 Order of board of health requiring inoculation of animals.
......"no board of health of an organized health department or county board of health shall order the inoculation of animals against rabies any more frequently than is recommended in the "Compendium of Animal Rabies Control" as promulgated by the national association of state public health veterinarians."
 
2008 Compendium  of Animal Rabies Control http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5702a1.htm
 

7. CONNECTICUT -- Connecticut Rabies Law Title 22 Section 338 http://search.cga.state.ct.us/dtsearch_pub_statutes.html
 
 Sec. 22-338. Licensing of dogs. Fees. Rabies certificate. Exemptions. (a) Each owner or keeper of a dog of the age of six months or older, except dogs kept under a kennel license as provided in section 22-342, shall cause such dog to be licensed in the town clerk's office in the town where such dog is kept, on or before June thirtieth, annually, or at such time as such dog becomes six months old, and annually thereafter, on or before June thirtieth. The owner or keeper shall pay to such town clerk for such license the sum of seven dollars for each neutered male or spayed female dog and the sum of twelve dollars for each unneutered male dog and each unspayed female dog, and one additional dollar in each case as the town clerk's fee for issuing a tag and license as provided in section 22-340. Two dollars from each license fee collected for a neutered or spayed dog shall be deposited into the animal population control account, established under section 22-380g. If an owner or keeper of a dog fails to procure a license as required by this section, such owner or keeper shall pay the appropriate license fee specified in this section, the town clerk's fee and a penalty of one dollar for each month or fraction thereof the dog remains unlicensed.
 
      (b) Any owner or keeper applying for a license for a dog under subsection (a) of this section, except for those owners or keepers possessing a rabies vaccination exemption certificate, or a copy thereof, issued pursuant to section 22-339b, shall submit to the town clerk a rabies certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian, or a copy thereof, stating that such dog has been vaccinated against rabies, the date of the vaccination and the duration of the immunity provided by the vaccine. No license shall be issued unless the certificate indicates that the immunity provided by the vaccine is effective at the time of licensing.
 
      (c) Any owner or keeper applying for a license for a dog pursuant to subsection (a) of this section that has been exempted from vaccination against rabies pursuant to section 22-339b shall submit to the town clerk a rabies vaccination exemption certificate issued by the department, or a copy thereof, in lieu of a rabies certificate.
 
      (d) This section shall not apply to any dog which is imported into this state for exhibition purposes and which does not remain in this state for more than thirty days. Any person may import, from another state, any licensed dog with collar, tag and rabies vaccination certificate, and keep the same in this state for not more than thirty days, without complying with the provisions of this section.
 
8. DELAWARE – Title 3 Chapter 82 Subchapter I § 8204. Rabies vaccination required for dogs and cats; antirabies clinics. http://delcode.delaware.gov/title3/c082/sc01/index.shtml
(a) Vaccination of dogs. --
(1) Any person owning a dog 6 months of age or older in this State shall have that dog vaccinated against rabies by a veterinarian. The owner of the dog will receive a copy of the rabies vaccination certificate legibly signed by the veterinarian. The owner of the dog will be responsible for keeping a valid rabies vaccination certificate in his possession for inspection by an animal control officer, the Department of Agriculture or the Division of Public Health, if deemed necessary.   

9. FLORIDA --http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?mode=View%20Statutes&SubMenu=1&App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=vaccine&URL=Ch0828/Sec30.HTM
 
Title XLVI Chapter 828 Florida Statutes
828.30  Rabies vaccination of dogs, cats, and ferrets.--
(1)  All dogs, cats, and ferrets 4 months of age or older must be vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian against rabies with a vaccine that is licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture for use in those species. The owner of every dog, cat, and ferret shall have the animal revaccinated 12 months after the initial vaccination. Thereafter, the interval between vaccinations shall conform to the vaccine manufacturer's directions. The cost of vaccination must be borne by the animal's owner. Evidence of circulating rabies virus neutralizing antibodies shall not be used as a substitute for current vaccination in managing rabies exposure or determining the need for booster vaccinations.
(2)  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.
(3)  Upon vaccination against rabies, the licensed veterinarian shall provide the animal's owner and the animal control authority with a rabies vaccination certificate. Each animal control authority and veterinarian shall use the "Rabies Vaccination Certificate" of the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV) or an equivalent form approved by the local government that contains all the information required by the NASPHV Rabies Vaccination Certificate. The veterinarian who administers the rabies vaccine to an animal as required under this section may affix his or her signature stamp in lieu of an actual signature.
(4)  Each ferret vaccinated according to this section must be quarantined, when necessary, according to rules of the Department of Health.
(5)  An animal owner's name, street address, phone number, and animal tag number contained in a rabies vaccination certificate provided to the animal control authority is exempt from s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution. However, any person who has been bitten, scratched, or otherwise exposed to a zoonotic disease or the physician of such person; a veterinarian who is treating an animal that has been bitten, scratched, or otherwise exposed to a zoonotic disease; or the owner of an animal that has been bitten, scratched, or otherwise exposed to a zoonotic disease shall be provided with any information contained in a rabies vaccination certificate but only with respect to the particular animal biting, scratching, or otherwise causing exposure. Any person with an animal tag number may receive vaccination certificate information with regard to that animal. Law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies; other animal control authorities; emergency and medical response and disease control agencies; or other governmental health agencies shall be provided information contained in the rabies vaccination certificate for the purpose of controlling the transmission of rabies; however, the receiving agencies and authorities must not release the exempt information.
(6)  Violation of this section is a civil infraction, punishable as provided in s. 828.27(2).
(7)  This section does not prohibit or limit municipalities or counties from establishing requirements similar to or more stringent than the provisions of this section for the implementation and enforcement of rabies-control ordinances. However, local governments shall not mandate revaccination of currently vaccinated animals except in instances involving postexposure treatment for rabies.

10. GEORGIA --http://www.health.state.ga.us/pdfs/epi/zvbd/Rabies%20Manual%202007%20Final%20with%20Cover.pdf which states as follows:
 
Currently Vaccinated Against Rabies -- An animal is "currently vaccinated" adn is considered immunized against rabies if a vaccination certificate documents that the animal received a USDA-approved primary rabies vaccine from a licensed veterinarian at least 28 days previously and that booster vaccinations have been administered on an annual or triennial schedule, in accordance with the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control (see pages 50-60) or as described on the vaccine label.
 
11. HAWAII -- Chapter 7 Licensing http://www.hawaii-county.com/hihs/HIHS07.html
Article 3. Dog License fees. Section 4-13.
 
Since rabies is not present on the island, a rabies vaccination is not a prerequisite to licensing (such a requirement is common in most areas of the United States).
 
12. IDAHO -- Idaho Department of Agriculture http://www.agri.idaho.gov/Categories/Animals/importExport/importdogcat.php
 
All dogs require a current Certificate of Veterinary Inspection. All dogs 3 months (12 weeks) of age or older require a current Rabies vaccination. This age is determined by the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control*.
 
Department of Health and Welfare Idaho Rabies Protocol, Protocol for Animal Isolation, Animal Bites and Rabies Post-exposure Prophylaxis 2007 http://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov/Portals/0/Health/Disease/RabiesProtocol2007[1].pdf
 
"Rabies vaccination for cats and dogs, although not mandated by the State of Idaho, may be required by local rabies ordinances ..."
 
"Regardless of the age of the animal at the time of primary immunization, a booster one year later and then regularly as indicated by the manufacturer is indicated.  Annual or triennial administration is standard; however, certain vaccines are licensed for boosting every four years.  The administration schedule is based on the particular product being administerd:  when in doubt, consult the tables in the Rabies Compendium."
 
13. ILLINOIS -- http://www.agr.state.il.us/Laws/Regs/AnimalActReg.pdf
 
Illinois Title 8 Part 30 Animal Control Act
 
Section 30.90 Recognized Immunity Period of Animal Rabies Vaccines
 
    (c)    .......Thus, when an animal rabies vaccine recognized as conveying a 3-year immunity is administered to a dog which is at least 1 year of age at the time of vaccination, that vaccination shall be recognized for a period of 3 years.

14. INDIANA -- Indiana Code IC 15-17-6 Chapter 6 Rabies http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title15/ar17/ch6.pdf
 
    IC 15-17-6-1 (2)(a) The vaccinated animal must be identified as vaccinated according to rules adopted by the board.  (See State Board of Animal Health Rule below pertaining to rabies immunization.)
 
Indiana State Board of Animal Health Rule 5 Rabies Immunization, 345 IAC 1-5-1 Rabies Vaccination http://www.in.gov/boah/files/rabiesrule20061.pdf
 
 http://www.in.gov/boah/2337.htm
Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect humans, pets, livestock and wildlife. Preventing the disease in animals provides the best means of protection to humans.
Under Indiana law, all dogs, cats and ferrets older than 3 months of age must be vaccinated against the rabies virus. State law allows the use of 1-year and 3-year vaccines according to approved label directions. (NOTE: Some localities throughout the state may have stricter local laws.) The vaccine must be administered by a licensed and accredited veterinarian only.
15. IOWA -- Iowa Code Titlte 9, Subtitle 1 Chapter 351 Dogs and Other Animals Section 351.33 Rabies Vaccination http://search.legis.state.ia.us/nxt/gateway.dll/ar/iac?f=templates&fn=default.htm
 
351.33  Rabies vaccination.
Every owner of a dog shall obtain a rabies vaccination for such animal.  It shall be unlawful for any person to own or have a dog in the person's possession, six months of age or over, which has not been vaccinated against rabies.  Dogs kept in kennels and not allowed to run at large shall not be subject to these vaccination requirements.
 
Iowa Department of Agriculture http://www.iowaagriculture.gov/animalIndustry/dogAndCatAdmissionRegs.asp
Animal Industry Bureau Health Requirements Governing the Admission of Animals DOGS
"All dogs four months of age and older must have a current rabies vaccination, with vaccine and by the procedure recommended by the Compendium, etc..."
 
16. KANSAS -- Kansas no specific statute, so it is assumed it is left to municipalities.   Kansas Department of Health cites CDC 2008 Rabies Compendium http://www.kdheks.gov/epi/download/Rabies_Compendium_2008.pdf
 
K.A.R. 28-1-13 and 18-1-14  http://www.kdheks.gov/epi/download/28-1-13.pdf
28-1-13. Rabies Control; isolation of mammals causing exposure to rabies for observation and examination, quarantine of mammals exposed to rabies.
(3) Dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, cattle, and sheep which have an owner, are wanted by that owner, and for which the owner produces rabies vaccination certificates containing the following shall be immediately re-vaccinated and kept under the owner's control and observed for 45 days:
(A) the expiration date of the rabies vaccination;
 
17. KENTUCKY -- Kentucky 902 KAR 2:070. Rabies control. http://www.lrc.state.ky.us/kar/902/002/070.htm
      Section 2. Vaccination Schedule. The vaccination schedule for all dogs, cats, and ferrets shall be as follows:
      (1) All dogs, cats, and ferrets four (4) months of age and older shall be vaccinated against rabies.
      (2) Dogs, cats, and ferrets initially vaccinated shall be revaccinated one (1) year after the initial vaccination regardless of the type of vaccine used or age of the animal at the time of vaccination.
      (3) Thereafter the period of time required for revaccination shall be dependent upon the type of vaccine administered. The date of expiration shall be indicated on the vaccination certificate. The current revaccination recommendations of the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, Inc. may be utilized in determining expiration dates of vaccines.
    The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV)  Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control, 2008 http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5702a1.htm

18. LOUISIANA -- LOUISIANA Administrative Code Title 51 Part III Chapter 1, Section 103 The Control of Rabies and Other Zoonotice Diseases   http://www.doa.louisiana.gov/osr/lac/51v01/51.doc
 
"Subsequent booster vaccines shall be administered one year after administration of a vaccine that confers one year of immunity and three years after the administration of a vaccine that confers three years of immunity."
 
19. MAINE -- Department of Health & Human Services Chapter 260 http://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/rules/10/chaps10.htm Rabies Immunization Requirements for Dog Licensure http://www.maine.gov/sos/cec/rules/10/144/144c260.doc
 
2.  ... the only valid certificate of immunization shall be the certificate of immunization specified by the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians in effect at the time the dog is subject to licensure or renewal of license, and authenticated by a licensed veterinarian..... and the date a booster vaccination is due (expiration date), in accordance wih the manufacturer's label for the vaccine used.  Only vaccines licensed by the US Food and Drug Administration shall be used.
 
20. MARYLAND -- Maryland Code Health -- General § 18-319. http://mlis.state.md.us/asp/web_statutes.asp?ghg&18-319
 
 (2)      Shall administer the vaccine in a manner that is consistent with the recommendations of the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians;

21. MASSACHUSETTS -- http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/140-145b.htm  The General Laws of Massachusetts Chapter 140: Section 145B. Vaccination against rabies; certificate; tag; proof of vaccination; penalty Section 145B. Whoever is the owner or keeper of a dog or cat in the commonwealth six months of age or older shall cause such dog or cat to be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian using a licensed vaccine according to the manufacturer’s directions, and shall cause such dog or cat to be revaccinated at intervals recommended by the manufacturer.
http://www.mass.gov/Eeohhs2/docs/dph/cdc/rabies/immunization_program.pdf Massachusetts Rabies Immunization Program for Dogs, Cats, and Ferrets
Chapter 141, Section 145B of the Massachuetts General Laws and 105 Code of Massachusetts (CMR) 330 require that all dogs and cats in Masschusetts be vaccinated against rabies.  Provisions of the law include vaccination of all dogs and cats by six months of age, use of a USDA-licensed rabies vaccine, use of a uniform vaccination certificate, National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV) form #51, and a rabies tag provided by the vaccinating veterinarian. 
22. MICHIGAN – (no medical exemption) Michigan http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(jdmubd45yvxn4cavzix3v03r))/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&objectname=mcl-287-266&queryid=4590976&highlight=rabies 
(ii) The last day of the month of the dog's current rabies vaccination, every third year.

23. MINNESOTA -- Minnesota Rabies Law http://www.bah.state.mn.us/diseases/rabies/rabies_rules.pdf
 
Subp.7. Vaccinated.  "Vaccinated" means an animal immunized for rabies by or under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian with a vaccine licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture and used in accordance with the label approved by the USDA taking into consideration the duration period of immunity set forth for the vaccine.  The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians annually publishes the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control which lists all vaccines approved and licensed by the USDA and the duration of immunity for each vaccine.  The board shall maintain current editions of this compendium which are available to the public upon request.
 
24. MISSISSIPPI -- Mississippi Rabies Laws http://www.mbah.state.ms.us/disease_programs/rabies/ms_rabies_laws.htm
 
Dogs and Cats**
All dogs and cats shall be vaccinated against rabies at three months of age, revaccinated one year later and every three years thereafter, using a rabies vaccine approved as providing a 3-year immunity.
 
25. MISSOURI -- Missouri Rabies Law http://www.moga.mo.gov/statutes/C300-399/3220000010.HTM
 
(3) "Immunized", immunized against rabies at the expense of the owner or custodian by the administration of antirabic virus by a licensed veterinarian;
 
http://www.dhss.missouri.gov/Rabies/
 
Vaccination of Animals
Effective rabies vaccines are available for dogs, cats, ferrets, sheep, cattle, and horses. Vaccination of cats and dogs is crucial, since vaccinated pets are a protective barrier between the people who own and interact with them and rabid wild animals with which the pets might have contact. Dogs and cats whose owners consider them to be “indoor animals” should also be vaccinated because these pets often have exposures to other animals, either by the dog or cat being unintentionally released to the outdoors, or by wild animals such as bats getting into the house. Vaccinations must be administered by a licensed veterinarian. Primary and booster vaccinations should be obtained in accordance with recommendations from licensed veterinarians and in accordance with local animal control ordinances. There is no postexposure treatment available for animals as there is for humans. Information pertaining to animal rabies vaccines as well as the prevention and control of rabies in animals is available in the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control, 2005². http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5403a1.htm
 
26. MONTANA -- Montana Administratie Rules Rule: 32.3.213 http://mtrules.org/gateway/ruleno.asp?RN=32%2E3%2E213
 
32.3.213    SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR DOGS AND CATS
 
(b) have been officially vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian against rabies in accordance with procedures recommended in the latest version of the U.S. Public Health Compendium for rabies vaccine, and are identified on the health certificate by the date of rabies vaccination and the serial number of the rabies vaccine and tag. Rabies vaccination requirements do not apply to puppies and kittens under three months of age.
 
27. NEBRASKA -- Nebraska Revised Statute 71-4401 http://www.legislature.ne.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=71-4401
(2) Vaccination against rabies means the inoculation of a domestic or hybrid animal with a rabies vaccine as approved by the rules and regulations adopted and promulgated by the department. Such vaccination shall be performed by a veterinarian duly licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Nebraska;
(3) Compendium means the compendium of animal rabies vaccine as provided by the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians;

28. NEVADA -- Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 571 Section 571.080  http://www.leg.state.nv.us/NAC/NAC-571.html#NAC571Sec080
 
NAC 571.080  Dogs and cats. (NRS 571.120, 571.210)  A person shall not ship, transport or otherwise move a dog or cat into Nevada unless:
     2.  A dog or cat that is 3 months of age or older is vaccinated against rabies pursuant to the Annual National Compendium of Animal Rabies Control which is hereby adopted by reference. The compendium is available without charge from the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians, Dr. Kathy Smith, Secretary, Ohio Department of Health, 246 North High Street, P.O. Box 118, Columbus, Ohio 43266-0118, telephone number (614) 466-0283.
     [Dep’t of Agriculture Reg., 55, eff. 9-1-64; A 7-15-71; 10-1-71; 4-1-77]—(NAC A by St. Quarantine Officer, 7-8-92)
Nevada Department of Agriculture http://agri.state.nv.us/Animal2_Rabies.htm
In Nevada, dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies 3 months of age and older.  Dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies with a vaccine that is designated to provide protection from rabies for 3 years.

29. NEW HAMPSHIRE -- State of New Hampshire Rabies Law with Medical Exemption Title XL, Chapter 436 Rabies Control Section 436:100  http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/xl/436/436-100.htm
    436:100 Rabies Vaccination Required; Exemption. –
    I. Except as provided in paragraph II, every dog, cat, and ferret 3 months of age and older shall be vaccinated against rabies. Young dogs, cats, and ferrets shall be vaccinated within 30 days after they have reached 3 months of age. Unvaccinated dogs, cats, and ferrets acquired or moved into the state shall be vaccinated within 30 days after purchase or arrival, unless under 3 months of age, as specified above. Every dog, cat, and ferret shall be revaccinated at such intervals and with such vaccines as the commissioner shall specify from time to time. In rabies infected areas, dogs, cats, and ferrets recently vaccinated shall be kept under control for at least 30 days before being allowed to run free.
    II. A rabies immunization exemption may be issued, where illness or a veterinary medical condition warrants, by the local rabies control authority upon the written recommendation of a veterinarian licensed under RSA 332-B. The recommendation shall also be signed by an American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine diplomate and the state veterinarian. The exempted animal shall be maintained in strict rabies isolation, under conditions that are at the discretion of the local rabies control authority, until such time as the medical condition has been resolved and the animal can be immunized against rabies. Exempted animals shall not be allowed outdoors without being on a leash and shall be under the direct physical control of an adult owner at all times. In addition, when the animal is outdoors, it shall be muzzled in a manner approved by the local rabies control authority.
Source. 1985, 72:1. 1992, 250:3. 1995, 202:4, eff. June 12, 1995. 2007, 79:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2008.

30. NEW JERSEYhttp://www.state.nj.us/health/animalwelfare/law.shtml 4:19-15.2a. Evidence of inoculation with rabies vaccine or certification of exemption; requirement for license
4:19-15.2a  Evidence of inoculation with rabies vaccine or certification of  exemption;  requirement for license
No municipal clerk or other official designated by the governing body of any  municipality to license dogs therein shall grant any such license and official  metal registration tag for any dog unless the owner thereof provides evidence  that the dog to be licensed and registered has been inoculated with a rabies  vaccine of a type approved by and administered in accordance with the  recommendations of the United States Department of Agriculture and the United  States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, or has been certified  exempt as provided by regulations of the State Department of Health.  Such vaccination shall be repeated at intervals as provided by regulations of the State Department of Health, and shall be administered by a duly licensed veterinarian or by such other veterinarian permitted by law to do the same.   The State Department of Health shall promulgate regulations providing for the recognized duration of immunity, interval of inoculation, certificate of vaccination, certificate of exemption, and such other matters related to this act.
NJ Department of Health Policies and Guidelines for Animal Rabies Vaccination http://www.state.nj.us/health/cd/ravacpolicy.doc

31. NEW MEXICO --  New Mexico Code Title 7 Chapter 4 Part 2 http://www.nmcpr.state.nm.us/nmac/parts/title07/07.004.0002.htm
7.4.2.8  VACCINATION OF DOGS AND CATS REQUIRED:
 A. Dogs and cats over the age of three months shall be vaccinated against rabies. The animal shall receive a booster within the 12-month interval following the initial vaccination.  Every domestic dog and cat shall be revaccinated against rabies within 12 months if a 1-year vaccine is administered or within 36 months if a 3-year vaccine is administered with a rabies vaccine licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture and administered according to label recommendations. The “compendium of animal rabies control (CARC),” published by the national association of public health veterinarians, Inc., shall be the reference for the route of inoculation and the type of vaccine.  Copies are available upon request from the department.

32. NEW YORK -- New York Laws Chapter 69 Of the Consolidated Laws.  Article 7. Licensing, Identification and Control of Dogs.  http://public.leginfo.state.ny.us/menugetf.cgi?COMMONQUERY=LAWS
 
    § 109. Licensing of dogs; rabies vaccination requirement. 1. Licensing
  of  dogs. (a) The owner of any dog reaching the age of four months shall
  immediately make application for a dog  license.  No  license  shall  be
  required  for any dog which is under the age of four months and which is
  not at large. Except  as  otherwise  provided  in  this  subdivision,  a
  license  shall  be issued or renewed for a period of one year, provided,
  that at the option of the governing board of the municipality, a license
  may be issued or renewed for a period of one, two or  three  years,  and
  provided  further, that no license shall be issued for a period expiring
  after the last day of the eleventh month following the expiration  date
  of  the  current  rabies  certificate  for  the  dog being licensed.

33. NORTH CAROLINA -- Dr. Thomas Morris, North Carolina's Public Health Veterinarian's office on call for Dr. Carl Williams, Public Health Veterinarian (919) 707-5900.
I spoke with Dr. Morris and he said the state accepts any licensed rabies vaccine and that there are 1 and 3 year rabies vaccine approved and licensed by the USDA and North Carolina accepts those.
North Carolina General Statutes
http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Chapter_130A/GS_130A-185.html
§ 130A 185.  Vaccination of all dogs and cats.
(a)       The owner of every dog and cat over four months of age shall have the animal vaccinated against rabies. The time or times of vaccination shall be established by the Commission. Rabies vaccine shall be administered only by a licensed veterinarian or by a certified rabies vaccinator.
(b)       Only animal rabies vaccine licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture and approved by the Commission shall be used on animals in this State. (1935, c. 122, s. 1; 1941, c. 259, s. 2; 1953, c. 876, s. 2; 1973, c. 476, s. 128; 1983, c. 891, s. 2.)

34. NORTH DAKOTA -- North Dakota Century Code Title 23 Chapter 23-26 Rabies Control 23-36-01 http://www.legis.nd.gov/cencode/t23c36.pdf
 
11. "Vaccinated animal" means an animal that has been vaccinated in compliance with the compendium of animal rabies control issued by the national association of state public health veterinarians.
 
35. OHIO -- The Ohio Department of Health (614-752-1029) said there is no "state law" on rabies immunization -- it is determined by the counties.
 
36. OKLAHOMA -- OKLAHOMA Rabies Law http://www.oar.state.ok.us/viewhtml/310_599-3-9.1.htm
Title 310 Chapter 599 Subchapter 3 -- Rabies Control
 310:599-3-9.1. Required immunization of dogs, cats, and ferrets 
(a)    The owner or custodian of a domestic dog, cat, or ferret shall cause the animal to be vaccinated against rabies by the time the animal is four months of age and at regular intervals thereafter according to the label directions of an approved rabies vaccine for use in that species, or as prescribed by ordinances or rules adopted by a municipality within whose jurisdiction the animal owner resides.
(b)    A veterinarian who administers or supervises the rabies vaccination of a dog, cat, or ferret shall issue to the animal's owner/custodian a vaccination certificate that meets the minimum standards set forth in OAC 310:599-3-7. Animal identification including, but not limited to species, gender, age, and predominant breed and coloring must be indicated on the vaccination certificate.
 
37. OREGON -- Oregon Administrative Rules Division19 §333-019-0017 (with medical exemption) http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/OARs_300/OAR_333/333_019.html
 
Rabies Vaccination for Animals
 
(1) Except where specifically exempt, all dogs at least three months old shall be immunized against rabies by the age of six months.
(3) To be considered immunized against rabies, dogs and cats must be vaccinated according to guidelines published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the Compendium of animal rabies prevention and control, 2005 MMWR 2005; 54 (No. RR-3).
38. PENNSYLVANIA -- http://www.pacode.com/secure/data/007/chapter16/chap16toc.html  Chapter 16 Rabies Prevention and Control Subchapter C§ 16.43. Revaccination.
 A dog or cat over 3 months of age shall be vaccinated to maintain immunity against rabies by the administration of a USDA licensed vaccine, including vaccines producing immunity lasting 3 years, in accordance with instructions prescribed by the manufacturer.
   (1)  A dog or cat vaccinated when under 1 year of age shall be revaccinated no later than 1 year later.
   (2)  A dog or cat vaccinated when over 1 year of age with a vaccine producing immunity lasting 3 years shall be revaccinated no later than 3 years later and at least every 3 years thereafter.
39. RHODE ISLAND -- RHODE ISLAND - Board OKs Change in Rabies Policy Providence Journal News Digest  May 1, 2009 http://www.projo.com/news/content/news_digest_01_05-01-09_5KE7P0O_v4.38640bf.html "PROVIDENCE –– The Rhode Island Rabies Control Board has approved a change in policy that could pave the way for regulations that will allow the vaccination of dogs and cats every three years, rather than every two years. "

40. SOUTH CAROLINA -- SOUTH CAROLINA Rabies Control Title 47 http://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t47c005.htm South Carolina State Veterinarian Dr. Stephanie Cox 803-898-4042
SECTION 47-5-60. Inoculation of pets; certificates and tags.
A pet owner must have his pet inoculated against rabies at a frequency to provide continuous protection of the pet from rabies using a vaccine approved by the department and licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture. Evidence of rabies inoculation is a certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian.

41. SOUTH DAKOTA -- South Dakota Administrative Rules http://legis.state.sd.us/rules/DisplayRule.aspx?Rule=12:68:06:09
 
   12:68:06:09.  Additional information to be contained in health certificate for imported cats and dogs. Any cat or dog imported into South Dakota must be accompanied by a health certificate as described in SDCL 40-14-2 issued by a state or federal government veterinary official of the originating state or by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate must state that the animal has not been exposed to rabies, that it is free from signs of any contagious or communicable disease, that it has been currently vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian, the date of vaccination, the type of vaccine used, and the date the animal is due for boostering for rabies immunization.
 
South Dakota Department of Health Compendium of Measures to Prevent Disease and Injury Associated with Animals in Public Settings, 2004 Part II Rabies http://doh.sd.gov/documents/AnimalsPublicSettings.pdf
"In high incidence areas, it is particularly critical that all mammals in situtations where public contact could occur (e.g., fairs) be current on rabies immunization.
 
42. TENNESSEE -- Title 68 Chapter 8 tennessee.gov/sos/acts/103/pub/pc0765.pdf
 
Tennessee’s state anti-rabies law, Title 68 Chapter 8 Section 103 (i) declares that “Nothing in this section shall be construed to require more frequent rabies vaccinations or a greater number of rabies vaccinations than are required by the rabies compendium,” and defines the “compendium” under Section 102 (3) as “the most recent issue of the national ‘Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control’ published by the Association of State Public Health Veterinarians..”
 
43. TEXAS --  Title 10 Chapter 826 Subchapter A http://tlo2.tlc.state.tx.us/statutes/docs/HS/content/pdf/hs.010.00.000826.00.pdf
 
 http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/idcu/health/zoonosis/education/training/aco/manual/information/826law.pdf
 
Texas Administrative Code Title 25 Part 1 Chapter 169 Subchapter A Rule 169.29 http://info.sos.state.tx.us/pls/pub/readtac$ext.TacPage?sl=R&app=9&p_dir=&p_rloc=&p_tloc=&p_ploc=&pg=1&p_tac=&ti=25&pt=1&ch=169&rl=29
 
(a) The custodian (excluding animal shelters as defined in the Texas Health and Safety Code, §823.001) of each dog or cat shall have the animal vaccinated against rabies by 16 weeks of age. The animal must be vaccinated by or under the direct supervision of a veterinarian with rabies vaccine licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture for that animal species at or after the minimum age requirement and using the recommended route of administration for the vaccine. The attending veterinarian has discretion as to when the subsequent vaccination will be scheduled as long as the revaccination due date does not exceed the recommended interval for booster vaccination as established by the manufacturer or vaccination requirements instituted by local ordinance.
 
44. UTAH -- Title 26 Chapter 6 Sections 11-15 http://le.utah.gov/~code/TITLE26/26_06.htm
 
No cited rabies vaccine requirement.
 
Import Requirements http://ag.utah.gov/divisions/animal/health/entry.html#pets
Cats, Dogs and Ferrets
All dogs, cats and ferrets over four months of age shall be accompanied by an official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (Health Certificate), showing a current vaccination against rabies. The date of vaccination, name of product used, and expiration date must be given.
Dr. Bruce L. King, State Veterinarian Department of Agriculture phone: (801) 538-7162 fax:  (801) 538-7169
 
45. VERMONT --  Vermont Department of Health Final Rules Vaccination of Domestic Pets, Wolf/Hybrids and Livestock Against Rabies
http://healthvermont.gov/prevent/rabies/documents/RabiesControlManual_vaccination.pdf
 
2.    Administration and Use of Rabies Vaccinations:
 
C.    Rabies vaccinations shall be administered as follows:
 
(1) To dometic pet:  in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation.
46. VIRGINIA -- VIRGINIA CODE Title 3.2 Section 3.2-6521 http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?000+cod+3.2-6521
§ 3.2-6521. (Effective October 1, 2008) Rabies inoculation of dogs and domesticated cats; availability of certificate; rabies clinics.
A. The owner or custodian of all dogs and domesticated cats four months of age and older shall have them currently vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician who is under the immediate and direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian on the premises. The supervising veterinarian on the premises shall provide the owner of the dog or the custodian of the domesticated cat with a certificate of vaccination. The owner of the dog or the custodian of the domesticated cat shall furnish within a reasonable period of time, upon the request of an animal control officer, humane investigator, law-enforcement officer, State Veterinarian's representative, or official of the Department of Health, the certificate of vaccination for such dog or cat. The vaccine used shall be licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for use in that species.

47. WASHINGTON STATE -- WAC 246-100-196 Rabies Preliminary Draft November 2009 http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/ts/Zoo/draft246-100-196.pdf
 
(3) Owners of dogs, cats and ferrets shall have their animals four months of age and older legally vaccinated per Chapter 18.92 RCW against rabies and revaccinated following veterinary and vaccine manufacture instructions.
 
Chapter 16-54 WAC Animal Importation 16-54-068 Restrictions. http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?dispo=true&cite=16-54&full=true
 
     (4) Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be accompanied by an entry permit and proof of current rabies vaccination if they originate from a rabies quarantined area or an area where the state or country of origin has designated terrestrial rabies as endemic.
 
48. WEST VIRGINIA -- West Virginia Code Chapter 19 Article 20 §19-20A-2. Vaccination of dogs and cats. http://www.legis.state.wv.us/WVCODE/code.cfm?chap=19&art=20A§ion=3
 
"Whoever owns, keeps or harbors a dog or cat within the boundaries of any county in the state of West Virginia shall, on or before the first day of June, one thousand nine hundred eighty-seven, have such dog or cat properly vaccinated or immunized against rabies with a vaccine capable of producing immunity for two years and shall every second year thereafter have such dog or cat revaccinated with a vaccine capable of producing immunity for two years."
 
49. WISCONSIN -- Wisconsin Statutes §95.21 Rabies control program. http://nxt.legis.state.wi.us/nxt/gateway.dll?f=templates&fn=default.htm&d=stats&jd=§95.21
 
95.21(2)   (2) Rabies vaccination required for dogs.  
 
95.21(2)(a)     
(a) Requirement for vaccination. Except as provided in s. 174.054 or sub. (9) (d), the owner of a dog shall have the dog vaccinated against rabies by a veterinarian or, if a veterinarian is physically present at the location the vaccine is administered, by a veterinary technician, pursuant to s. 453.05 (2) (d), at no later than 5 months of age and revaccinated within one year after the initial vaccination. If the owner obtains the dog or brings the dog into this state after the dog has reached 5 months of age, the owner shall have the dog vaccinated against rabies within 30 days after the dog is obtained or brought into the state unless the dog has been vaccinated as evidenced by a current certificate of rabies vaccination from this state or another state. The owner of a dog shall have the dog revaccinated against rabies by a veterinarian or, if a veterinarian is physically present at the location the vaccine is administered, by a veterinary technician, pursuant to s. 453.05 (2) (d), before the date that the immunization expires as stated on the certificate of vaccination or, if no date is specified, within 3 years after the previous vaccination.
 
50. WYOMING -- Wyoming Statutes Title 11 Chapter 31 Section 11-31-212 http://legisweb.state.wy.us/statutes/statutes.aspx?file=titles/Title11/Title11.htm
11-31-212.  Rabies control districts; establishment; notice.
(a)  The board of county commissioners of any county may establish a rabies control district by resolution when in the judgment of the board and the county health officer a district is necessary. The resolution shall designate the boundaries of the district, which may include any incorporated city or town, and shall identify the district by name.
11-31-213.  Registration; vaccination certificate required.
The board of county commissioners may require the registration of all dogs and cats within a rabies control district and may require the owner or person having the right to possession of any dog or cat in the district three (3) months of age or older, to present a valid rabies vaccination certificate showing the dog or cat has been vaccinated for immunization against rabies by a licensed veterinarian as a condition for registration. The vaccination certificate shall indicate the date of vaccination, the type of vaccine used and the period of immunization.