Rabies vaccination verification program begins

Special to The Journal

Published Friday, June 26, 2009

There will be a Rabies Vaccination Verification Program starting in Crenshaw County the week of June 25. Alabama Code 3-7A-1 ET, SEQ requires that all dogs and cats over three months of age be vaccinated against rabies yearly. The law also requires that the owner must be able to provide proof of vaccination signed by a licensed veterinarian. Under the law, a stray dog or cat fed, harbored or otherwise permitted to remain on private property is considered to belong to the property owner or leaseholder and that person is responsible for obtaining vaccination of the animal.

The deputies will go door to door throughout all cities, townships, and rural areas and will wear uniforms consisting of white shirts with insignias, blue slacks, black shoes, and a blue cap. All deputies will have a light blue I.D. card attached to their lapels for identification purposes. A Notice of Program Compliance will be left at homes when deputies are unable to speak directly with someone and will issue citations as circumstances and evidence dictate. If residents do not have their animals properly vaccinated when they are checked, residents will have to pay the penalty and get the animals properly vaccinated by a licensed veterinarian. This should be done within seven days according to state law. Those pet owners who are in violation of the law will be fined a $20 citation penalty for the animal plus the cost of the vaccination fee. Those failing to comply with the law will have deposition summons issued and a court date will be set. The court costs and penalties (including the original penalty) could cost up to $500 and/or six moths in jail.

The public is requested to have their rabies vaccination certificate posted on or around their front door in plain view so that the Deputy Rabies Inspectors can move on to the next house if they are in compliance with the law.

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