RABIES
posted: Oct. 02, 2019.
Rabies
In Jefferson County, it is required by law that all dogs are up to date on the Rabies vaccine. However, we strongly recommend also keep your cat up to date. REGARDLESS OF VACCINE STATUS, if your dog or cat bites a human it must be reported and will likely require a 10 day quarantine. Owners are responsible for any costs related to this.
*If your dog or cat is exposed to a wild animal known to be a reservoir species (bat, skunk, raccoon, or fox), the vaccine status of your pet could determine the testing and quarantine period required. An overdue Rabies vaccination in a dog or cat exposed to a Rabies suspect or reservoir species does not mean the pet is protected from Rabies suspicion.
*If a dog or cat is bitten by a rabid animal:
Up to date on Rabies → Booster Rabies vaccine, 45 day in-home quarantine
Overdue for Rabies → Booster Rabies vaccine, 45 day in-home quarantine +/- additional requirements
Unvaccinated for Rabies (no documentation) →
Euthanize for testing OR...
120 day quarantine (90 at a designated facility, 30 at home) plus 3 Rabies vaccinations (at cost to the Owner) OR...
May be eligible for prospective serological monitoring (at least $200 cost)
*Rabies cannot be transmitted by a bite from a rabbit, rodent, bird, or reptile.
*Please be aware that the exact laws vary by Local Public Health Agency and if there is any question of Rabies exposure, it is best to contact an official.
Besides Rabies, it is also highly recommended that our domesticated pets receive the following vaccines.
Canines
*DA2PP - core vaccine (distemper, adenovirus-2, parainfluenza and parvovirus)
*Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Canine Influenza Virus
Felines
*Indoor only - FVRCP (rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia)
*Indoor/Outdoor or Outdoor only - FVRCP, FeLV
References:
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/rabies
https://foothillsanimalshelter.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Jeffco-Animal-Ordinance.pdf
https://www.jeffco.us/DocumentCenter/View/1624/Rabies-Flyer-PDF