|
Rabies Quarantine
It is very important to quarantine all animals suspected of rabies. This includes dogs and cats that have bitten a person. All domestic animals that bite (dogs and cats) must be quarantined for 10 days or humanely euthanized. Ferrets must be quarantined for 14 days. Most domestic animals will be quarantined. The quarantine begins on the day the bite occurred. Quarantine means placing the animal in a facility that provides: absolute security; isolation; and observance twice a day by a qualified person.
Quarantine must be in one of the following facilities:
- Approved veterinary clinic operated by a licensed veterinarian
- One of MCACC’s shelters
- Owner’s home, if approved by MCACC.
Home quarantine is approved if:
- the animal was currently licensed and vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days prior to the date of the bite (also, if under four months of age).
- A rabies vaccination certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian is the only acceptable proof of vaccination.
- the animal was not a stray at the time of the bite.
- the owner’s home has an enclosure that will provide the required security and isolation.
- MCACC or a licensed veterinarian observes the animal at least on the first and last days of the quarantine period.
The owner of the bite animal is required by state law to pay the cost of the quarantine.
If you believe you may have been exposed to the rabies virus call
Animal Care and Control: (602) 506-7387 or
The Maricopa County Department of Public Health:
(602) 747-7500 (24 hours a day)
|