Are Indiana Pets Legally Required to Get Vaccinated Against Rabies?

Here's a hypothetical scenario: you're out for a peaceful walk with your furbaby when suddenly, a cute little raccoon approaches. Your doggy, not wanting to be rude, approaches what could be a potential new friend - and you're left to wonder if that raccoon has rabies. We don't want another Cujo situation, right? A simple vaccination can prevent a scenario like this from turning tragic.

Has your pet been vaccinated against rabies? Are Indiana pets required to have one?

Are Indiana Pets Required to Get a Rabies Vaccination?

Would you be surprised to learn that YES, you are required to get your pet vaccinated against rabies in Indiana? I sure was, and I'll admit that I don't think my sweet old dog has ever gotten that vaccination. He's an inside dog, so it seems virtually impossible for him to get rabies, but still, the law is the law. So, what does the law say? Here's the official word from In.gov...

In Indiana, rabies vaccination exemptions are NOT allowed. All dogs, cats, and ferrets 3 months of age and older must be vaccinated against rabies. The rabies vaccine must be administered by a licensed and accredited veterinarian or under the direct supervision of a licensed and accredited veterinarian.

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What If Your Pet Doesn't Have the Rabies Vaccination?

A rabies vaccination is required for pets in Indiana, so by failing to get one, you are breaking the law. But don't worry, "Harboring a nonimmunized dog" won't get you locked up - it is just a class C infraction. The offense gets bumped up to a class B misdemeanor if your nonimmunized dog causes bodily injury by biting a person.

The good news is, it looks like a rabies vaccine will only cost you about $30, and I have to think your vet has plenty in stock.