(A) (1) Dogs and cats rabies immunization required. All dogs and cats over the age of six months harbored or maintained within the city shall be immunized against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. The vaccines used and their duration of immunity against rabies will be as recommended by the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV) in their current Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control.
(2) Exceptions. No dog or cat need be vaccinated when a licensed veterinarian has examined the animal and certified that, at such time, vaccination would endanger its health because of its age, infirmity, debility, illness, or other medical consideration; and such exception certificate is presented to the city. The animal shall be vaccinated against rabies as soon as its health and age permit.
(B) Exposure. Dogs, cats or other animals known to have been bitten by or exposed to a rabid animal must be euthanized or the animal's owner must adhere to procedures as described in the NAHSPV Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control. Notification of exposure shall be made immediately to the city. Costs associated with exposure are incurred at the animal owner's expense.
(C) Disposition of diseased dogs, cats or other animals. If a dog, cat or other animal quarantined under § 90.10 is found to be sick or diseased, the operator of the quarantine facility will immediately report in writing to the city on the condition of the dog or animal. The city may then take possession of the dog, cat or animal for the purpose of submitting it to determine if it is suffering from rabies. A diseased dog, cat or animal may be euthanized, if the city determines such action necessary for the protection of public health and safety, or as recommended by a licensed veterinarian.
(Ord. 857, passed 10-14-2015)