Code of Maine Rules
10 - DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
144 - DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES - GENERAL
Chapter 251 - RULES GOVERNING RABIES MANAGEMENT
Section 144-251-9 - Conditions of the confinement and isolation periods for domesticated animals

Universal Citation: 10 ME Code Rules ยง 144-251-9

Current through 2024-38, September 18, 2024

A. The duration and conditions of these periods, as stated on the official notices, start the day of exposure.

B. The ACO must have access to the confinement or isolation area in the event that the municipality wishes to periodically check on the animal.

C. The owner or keeper is responsible for confinement or isolation of a domesticated animal. If confinement or isolation is not possible on an owner's or keeper's property, the owner or keeper must make arrangements for that animal at a licensed boarding kennel or veterinary clinic. The owner or keeper assumes all responsibility and risk for ensuring proper confinement or isolation of a domesticated animal. If the municipality determines that a domesticated animal is a public health risk, the municipality may assume control of the confinement or isolation of the animal.

D. The owner or keeper of that animal will be financially responsible for all confinement or isolation expenses incurred for a domesticated animal.

E. If the animal shows any changes in health or behavior during the confinement or isolation period, the animal must be examined by a veterinarian who will determine if rabies testing is indicated. The veterinarian shall be informed by the owner or keeper that the animal is under confinement or isolation for rabies.

F. If the animal escapes from confinement or isolation, the owner or keeper must immediately notify the ACO; however, the owner or keeper is responsible and assumes all risk resulting from an escaped animal.

G. The owner or keeper may not sell, give away, euthanize or otherwise dispose of the animal during the confinement or isolation period.

H. All animals must be examined at the end of the confinement or isolation period established in Section 4 of these Rules.

(1) The ACO shall visually inspect domesticated animals at the end of the ten-day confinement and observation period following exposure of a human or another domesticated animal.
(a) If any alteration of normal behavior is observed at the time of ACO inspection, the ACO shall require a veterinary exam for release.

(b) If a bite victim requests a veterinary exam following confinement and observation, the exam shall be ordered by the ACO and paid for by the owner or keeper.

(2) A veterinarian shall examine domesticated animals at the end of the six-month strict isolation period following exposure to a confirmed or suspected rabid animal.

I. The suspect rabid animal may not roam at large nor be left outside unsupervised. The animal must not be taken from the confinement or isolation area except to be transported to a veterinarian for examination or euthanasia. During transport to and from the confinement or isolation area, the animal must be under the direct supervision of a responsible adult and must be on a leash or tether no longer than six feet.

Disclaimer: These regulations may not be the most recent version. Maine may have more current or accurate information. We make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained on this site or the information linked to on the state site. Please check official sources.
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