In 2008, skunks accounted for 67 cases of rabies in Tennessee.
Rabies is uncommon among domestic animals in Tennessee. In 2008, there were 129 cases of rabies in the state, but only five of these occurred in dogs and cats. Tennessee Code Title 68, Chapter 8, Sections 101-113 help to minimize these numbers by providing specific, statewide guidelines regarding rabies shots.
Dogs and Cats
According to Section 103, all dogs and cats must receive a rabies vaccine before they are six months old. The vaccine must be administered by a veterinarian. Pet owners receive a certificate stating that the vaccine is current so they can then register their pets. Furthermore, Section 104 states that neither dogs nor cats may be registered until they receive the vaccine.
Rabies Tags
Section 106 mandates that dogs must wear metal rabies tags on their collars. Tags correspond to the dogs' rabies certificates. Owners may remove rabies tags for hunting dogs on the chase. The law does not require cats to wear the tags but does permit them to do so.
Other Animals
Section 103 allows pet owners to pursue legally approved rabies vaccines for domestic animals besides cats and dogs. Although the law permits these vaccinations, it does not require them. Consider how likely your animal is to come into contact with wild animals, which carry the disease, and with people. It may not be feasible to vaccinate all domestic animals, especially livestock, but consider vaccinating animals that have significant contact with people---horses, for example.
Local Regulations
According to Section 105, local governments are free to adopt their own rabies vaccination policies, and therefore regulations may vary between Tennessee's 95 counties and 347 municipalities. However, local practice must meet the minimum standards established by the state code.
Failure to Comply
Section 113 defines failure to comply with state rabies regulations as a Class C misdemeanor.
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