Make Sure Your Pets Are Not Breaking the Law in Texas!

The Importance of Spaying, Neutering, and Vaccinating Pets in Abilene

Paul Washburn, founder of Rescue the Animals, recently visited the studio to discuss the crucial need for pet owners to spay, neuter, and vaccinate their pets. He revealed that local animal shelters are facing a major overcrowding issue, largely due to unspayed and unneutered cats and dogs roaming freely.

Vaccination Laws in Abilene and Texas

Washburn also emphasized the importance of vaccinating pets, particularly highlighting that all cats and dogs in Abilene are required by law to receive a rabies vaccination. He reminded listeners that this is not only a local requirement but a statewide mandate. According to the Texas Department of Health and Human Services, "Texas requires all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies by 4 months of age. The vaccination must be administered by a licensed veterinarian and documented." Source: Department of Health and Human Services Texas

Additional Vaccinations to Protect Pets

In addition to the rabies vaccine, Washburn advised vaccinating cats for feline leukemia and discussed the dangers of rattlesnake bites, which are common in Abilene and the Big Country. While the vaccines for feline leukemia and rattlesnake bites are not mandated by city or state law, they can still be vital for your pet’s safety. Washburn reiterated that the only required vaccine by law is the rabies vaccine.

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Abilene's Vaccination Ordinance: What You Need to Know

Here’s how Abilene’s vaccination law reads:
ARTICLE II. PETS Sec. 6-31. Vaccination.
No person shall own, keep, or harbor a dog or cat over the age of four (4) months within the city limits unless the dog or cat has a current certificate of vaccination for an anti-rabies vaccine. Source: City of Abilene Charter, Code of Ordinances and Land Development Code.

Recommendations from Veterinarians

Veterinarian Allen Bolt, of the Animal Health and Medical Center, strongly recommends additional vaccinations for the health of your pets. While the rabies vaccine is the only one legally required, Dr. Bolt advises, “To avoid costly vet bills, I highly recommend other vaccinations, even if they are not required by law.”

Overpopulation and the Importance of Spaying and Neutering

Washburn stressed the importance of spaying and neutering pets to combat the overpopulation crisis at local animal rescue centers. For additional vaccines like the rattlesnake or feline leukemia vaccines, pet owners can administer these themselves. Washburn mentioned that they are available over the counter at local feed stores, such as Jackson Brother Feed, where he recently purchased vaccines for his own pets.

Don't forget that National Make A Dog’s Day is on October 22 and National Cat Day is on October 29th it's the purrfect time to pay extra attention to your furry friends.

#MakeADogsDay / #NationalCatDay