ARTICLE 2.500  IN GENERAL

Sec. 2.501     Vaccinations

Every owner of a dog or cat four (4) months of age or older shall have such animals vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. The animal must receive a booster vaccination within the 12-month interval following the initial vaccination. The owner shall then have the option of continuing the yearly vaccination or having the animal vaccinated every three years. Any person establishing residence within the City of Watauga shall comply with this requirement within ten (10) days of establishing such residence. If an unvaccinated dog or cat inflicts a bite, scratch or otherwise attacks any person within the city limits, a rabies vaccine shall not be administered to the dog or cat until after a ten (10) day observation period beginning with the date of the bite, scratch, or attack. (Ordinance 1172 adopted 11/10/03)

Sec. 2.502     Certificate of Vaccination

Upon vaccination, the veterinarian shall execute and furnish, to the owner of the dog or cat as evidence thereof, a certificate of vaccination. The veterinarian shall retain a duplicate copy of the certificate and one (1) copy shall be filed with the owner. Such certificate shall contain the following information:

(1)     The name, address, and telephone number of the owner of the vaccinated animal;

(2)     Identifying information of the animal including species, sex (including neutered if applicable), approximate age [three (3) months to twelve (12) months, twelve (12) months or older], size (pounds), predominant breed, and colors;

(3)     The vaccine used-producer, expiration date, and serial number;

(4)     The date of vaccination;

(5)     The date in which the vaccination expires (revaccination due date);

(6)     The rabies tag number if a tag is issued; and

(7)     The veterinarian’s signature or signature stamp and license number.

(Ordinance 1211 adopted 11/8/04)

Sec. 2.503     Rabies Tag

Concurrent with the issuance and delivery of the certificate of vaccination, the owner of the dog or cat shall cause to be attached to the collar or harness of the vaccinated animal a metal tag, serially numbered to correspond with the vaccination certificate number and bearing the year of issuance.  (1977 Code or Ordinances, Chapter 3, Article 5, Section 3)