§ 5-5. Vaccination of dogs and cats.

(a)

Any resident person who owns or keeps a dog or cat four (4) months old or older shall cause the dog or cat to be vaccinated effectively against rabies with a United States government-approved vaccine, by a licensed veterinarian. Evidence of vaccination shall consist of a rabies vaccination certificate signed by the veterinarian administering the vaccination and a City rabies vaccination tag attached to the animal's collar. The certificate shall contain:

(1)

A serialized certificate.

(2)

The name, address, and phone number of the owner.

(3)

The date of vaccination.

(4)

The expiration date of the vaccination.

(5)

The species, age, sex, color, breed, weight, and name of the animal vaccinated.

(6)

The rabies vaccine manufacturer.

(7)

The vaccine lot number.

(8)

The type and brand of vaccine used.

(9)

The route of administration of the vaccine.

(10)

The signature of the licensed veterinarian.

No other vaccination certificate or tag shall be valid in the City. A license certificate and license tag issued for one animal is only valid for the animal licensed and is not transferable. Violation of provisions enacted pursuant to this section shall be a civil infraction, punishable as provided in Fla. Stat. § 828.27(2).

(b)

Any nonresident who brings a dog six (6) months of age or older into the City with intent to reside within the City permanently, or temporarily for a minimum of six (6) months, shall obtain a license certificate and a license tag from the Department Manager or a licensed veterinarian within 30 days of arrival. The owner must prove ownership of the animal.

(c)

Vaccination is excused only if the owner or keeper can prove that the dog or cat has been vaccinated against rabies within the past six (6) months by a veterinarian licensed to practice in any state, or if a licensed veterinarian certifies in writing that a vaccination would be injurious to the animal's health. In the latter case, the animal shall be kept in an enclosed building or kennel until the veterinarian can safely vaccinate the animal.

(Code 1999, § 3-5)