Does anyone administer rabies vaccinations themselves?

PaintHorseMares · 03-01-2013, 04:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Missy May

I haven't read through every post, so forgive if this is just a repeat of what is above.
I do not know of a law that prohibits one from vaccinating their own horse w rabbies vaccine. A given state (such as NM and several others) might restrict the sale of the vaccine to vets only, though.

I do not know about all states, but in many western states public notice is given for rabbies vaccination for horses per county only during a verified outbreak (I don't know if it is "suggested" or "required"). An outbreak can consist of a single verified case, including (and ordinarily is) wild animals.

So, if there is an outbreak and you do personally administer it, you will have protected your horses from the disease, but not yourself from the law ( if there should be any question), as you will have no certification, and you will have no traceability (that will hold up) in the event the vaccine causes problems. Personally, if it weren't restricted here, I would just administer it myself.

As I mentioned previously, in NC it is illegal to even possess the vaccine.

North Carolina General Statutes 130A-191 -Possession and distribution of rabies vaccine

It shall be unlawful for persons other than licensed veterinarians, certified rabies vaccinators and persons engaged in the distribution of rabies vaccine to possess rabies vaccine. Persons engaged in the distribution of vaccines may distribute, sell and offer to sell rabies vaccine only to licensed veterinarians and certified rabies vaccinators.
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tealamutt · 03-01-2013, 06:01 PM

To the OP: I think you should probably have a vet out to do it for the reason that you'll be needing to establish a relationship with a new vet and this is the perfect non-emergency opportunity to do so.

To everyone saying they do it themselves: I would assume the reason for administering yourself would be saving money. While this can make sense for things like dewormer and even other vaccines, it does not make sense for rabies. The quarantine costs for an animal for which you cannot prove vaccination (and a vet's administration is required for this) is HUGE. Granted, this is more of a concern for animals like dogs and cats where it's usually due to a bite that you'd "need" proof of vaccine but still... Yes you want your animal protected, but should you need proof of vaccination in the instance of an outbreak (and you can't predict outbreaks, especially in areas like mine where Rabies cases are a major problem), probably best to cough up the minor vaccination charge rather than face trouble down the line. And as many others have stated, it is often illegal to possess or administer the vaccine.

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