Alabama Administrative Code
Title 420 - ALABAMA STATE BOARD OF HEALTH
Chapter 420-4-4 - RABIES CONTROL PROGRAM
Section 420-4-4-.08 - Exemptions From Vaccination

(1) With the written consent of an animal's owner, a veterinarian with a valid client/patient relationship (VC/PR) may issue a certificate exempting an animal from the rabies vaccination requirements in § 3-7A-2, Code of Ala. 1975, if he or she determines that it would be medically contraindicated to vaccinate the animal due to an infirmity, other medical condition, or regimen of therapy. The Certificate of Exemption from Rabies Vaccine form in Appendix A to these rules shall be used.

(2) Certification that the animal is exempt from vaccination shall be valid for a period of one year from the date of the issuance of the certificate of exemption, after which time the animal shall be re-examined by a licensed veterinarian and vaccinated against rabies or a new Certificate of Exemption shall be issued to the animal's owner.

(3) An exempt animal must be vaccinated against rabies as soon as its health permits.

(4) The Certificate of Exemption shall be provided to the animal's owner and a copy shall be provided to the Department within seven days from the date of the issuance of the certificate. The veterinarian who issues the certificate shall maintain a copy of the certificate for a minimum of one year from the date of issuance.

(5) An exemption from the rabies vaccination requirements of these rules does not exempt the animal from other laws and regulations related to animal and rabies control. If the exempted animal is exposed or is suspected of being exposed to rabies (e.g., due to an exposure from a rabid or suspect rabid animal), the Health Officer shall require it to be euthanized or quarantined for six months. If the animal is suspected of exposing a human, it shall be quarantined for 10 days.