Rabies Vaccination

6.04.050 Rabies Vaccination Requirements

1. No owner of any dog, cat, or ferret shall keep or maintain a dog, cat or ferret over the age of three (3) months unless each animal is immunized against rabies by a vaccination performed by a veterinarian and the period of immunization specified by the veterinarian performing the vaccination has not expired.

2. In accord with J.C. § 35-46-3-1 and pursuant to this Chapter, the knowing or intentional harboring of a dog over six (6) months of age without a rabies vaccination commits a Class C infraction, and which can be elevated to a Class B Misdemeanor if said non-immunized dog causes bodily injury by biting a person. A violation of I.C. 35-46-3-1 shall be enforced by the Porter County Prosecutor's Office.

3. Proof of vaccination shall be maintained by the owner and displayed if requested by Porter County Animal Control, and/or any law enforcement officer employed by the Porter County Sheriff's Department.

4. Owners who are found to be in violation of this Section of the Animal Control Ordinance shall be fined $100.00 dollars for the first violation of this Section and $150.00 dollars for any subsequent violation of this Section.