§ 10-97. Animals bitten by rabid animals/suspected rabid animals.

(a)

Dogs, cats and ferrets current on their rabies vaccinations that are bitten by a suspected or proven rabid animal shall be revaccinated immediately, confined and observed for the recommended time set by the State of Georgia. Confinement is the responsibility of the owner and subject to unannounced inspections by CCAC to ensure compliance.

(b)

Unvaccinated dogs, cats and ferrets that are bitten by a suspected or proven rabid animal should be humanely euthanized immediately. If the owner is unwilling to euthanize the animal, the exposed animal must be placed in strict confinement/isolation for the period of time set by the State of Georgia and vaccinated one month prior to being released from isolation. Confining the animal in strict isolation is the responsibility of the animal owner and subject to unannounced inspections by CCAC.

(c)

Cattle and livestock that are current on their rabies vaccinations bitten by a suspected or proven rabid animal shall be revaccinated immediately, confined, and observed for the period of time set by the State of Georgia. Confining the animal in strict isolation is the responsibility of the animal owner and subject to unannounced inspections by CCAC.

(d)

Unvaccinated cattle or livestock bitten by a suspected or proven rabid animal should be destroyed (slaughtered) immediately. Under special circumstances and with the approval of CCAC and the county health department, the owner may opt to keep the exposed animal under very strict confinement/isolation and close observation for the period of time set by the State of Georgia.

(e)

Any animal bitten by a suspected or proven rabid animal that is not destroyed and manifests any of the symptoms of rabies should be immediately examined by a licensed veterinarian. If the licensed veterinarian determines the animal is displaying symptoms of rabies and the symptoms cannot be attributed to any other illness or injury, the animal shall be humanely euthanized and CCAC shall be notified.

(f)

All animals will be managed in accordance with the guidelines established in the most current edition of the Georgia Rabies Control Manual.

(Res. of 11-9-93; Code 1977, § 3-5-7.1; Ord. of 5-24-05)

State law reference

Animal bites, O.C.G.A. § 31-19-4.