Rabies shots

[elena86]

What is the recommended protocol for basenjis and rabies shots? Our local authorities are obviously trying to find new ways to raise money, because they will be conducting door-to-door searches for unlicensed dogs, and those without rabies vaccine tags. Senji has a dog license, but he hasn't had a rabies shot since 2003. Since he has severe liver disease, the vet has been hesitant to subject him to the rabies shots. Do you think the vet can get me an exemption for this?
On a side note, I might make a stink out of this being a type of "illegal search" by government officials.

[kiroja]

Rabies need to be given every 3 years. There are even a few states that require it more often. You'll need to check with your state to see what the rule is. Yes, your vet might be able to give you an exemption. I'm not sure on what the details for that is either, but they do waive the shot sometimes for specific medical reasons/conditions. HOWEVER, if your dog ever bites someone, then the dog is subject to quarantine and/or being destroyed because they didn't have the vaccine. That's the risk you have to take if you have a dog who will likely have a reaction to the shot.

[Basenjimamma]

Here in Hosuton, TX we have to have rabies done yearly, unless you get two shots whitin one year then your good for three years…makes no sense right? My vet even said to me that all the rables shots are good in the dogs system for three years, but that the local governing body requires yearly shots.
CSince your vet seems hesitant in giving it to Senji, and if he can't get an exemption, could he just give you the tags, so it looks like he got the shots? I know some vets might do that if it is of the best interest for teh dog.
It definitely sounds fishy that the are doing a door-to- door. Could you get a congressman involved?

[tanza]

@elena86:

What is the recommended protocol for basenjis and rabies shots? Our local authorities are obviously trying to find new ways to raise money, because they will be conducting door-to-door searches for unlicensed dogs, and those without rabies vaccine tags. Senji has a dog license, but he hasn't had a rabies shot since 2003. Since he has severe liver disease, the vet has been hesitant to subject him to the rabies shots. Do you think the vet can get me an exemption for this?
On a side note, I might make a stink out of this being a type of "illegal search" by government officials.

You should be able to get a letter from you Vet? And you can do titer tests as a back up. Of course rabies are the law… and I follow the 3yr for ONLY that reason and that if mine were to bite, they are covered... as the law will take them away....

Here is the thread on titer testing
http://www.basenjiforums.com/showthread.php?t=3585&highlight=titer

[lvoss]

Check your state law. In California, an animal can gain an exemption for health reasons but it must then be confined to the owner's property unless its vaccinations are brought up to date.

[Shaye's Mom]

In Florida the rabies shot is required yearly, and if your dog bites someone and has not had it, the dog will be taken, quarantined, and perhaps put down to find out if it has rabies. That's for both dogs and cats.

[tanza]

Found this under Florida law on rabies

(2) A dog or cat shall not be required to be vaccinated against rabies if a licensed veterinarian has examined the animal and has certified in writing that at such time vaccination would endanger the animal's health because of its age, infirmity, disability, illness, or other medical considerations. Such exempt animal shall be vaccinated against rabies as soon as its health permits.

And it also seems in Florida, it can change from county to county on if required yearly or 3 yrs..

[tanza]

This is from PA
http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/agriculture/cwp/view.asp?q=127956

Booster Vaccinations
Animals under one year of age at the time of the original vaccination must have a booster vaccination one year later and then at least every three years thereafter. Animals older than one year must have boosters at least every three years after the original vaccination.

You can try the internet to see if you can find anything on animals that a Vet thinks should not have the test… I think most states have them.... or just ask your Vet... Good luck...

[Shaye's Mom]

@tanza:

Found this under Florida law on rabies

(2) A dog or cat shall not be required to be vaccinated against rabies if a licensed veterinarian has examined the animal and has certified in writing that at such time vaccination would endanger the animal's health because of its age, infirmity, disability, illness, or other medical considerations. Such exempt animal shall be vaccinated against rabies as soon as its health permits.

And it also seems in Florida, it can change from county to county on if required yearly or 3 yrs..

Good to know that about an animal with health issues - and yes, it does vary county to county. Hillsborough, where I live, requires it yearly.