Law About Puppy Shots

Only one companion animal vaccination is required by law, and that's the vaccination for rabies. However, there is some debate even among veterinarians about the frequency of these vaccinations and state law varies on the matter. Growing concern about over-vaccination is especially focused on rabies vaccinations because they are legally required and the possibility of side effects increases with the frequency of vaccination.

  1. Canine Rabies

    • In 2007 the Centers for Disease Control announced that canine rabies no longer existed in the U.S., and this led some people to contend that rabies vaccinations are no longer necessary. However, rabies still exists in the wildlife population and can be transmitted to dogs and other domestic animals. A vaccine is of no use if it isn't given before exposure, so vaccination is required by law.

    Vaccination Frequency

    • Rabies is contagious to humans as well, and it can be deadly, so all states require puppies to be vaccinated for it. The age of the initial vaccination varies between eight weeks and six months, depending on the state. The schedule after that initial vaccination differs from state to state as well, but generally a dog is expected to receive a rabies vaccination either every year or every three years.

    Concern in the Industry

    • There is increasing concern about over-vaccinating as documentation of its association with harmful side effects grows. Because the rabies vaccine is legally required it provides a special concern and even more so because a rabies vaccine intended for use every three years may also be labeled and approved for use every year. Side effects for the rabies vaccine can include everything from vomiting and seizures to a form of encephalitis. Some puppies may even have allergic reactions that can be life-threatening. Some states offer medical exemptions for animals that are allergic or in compromised health. However, these exemptions are not always for the lifetime of the animal.

    Moving Between States

    • Some states have pet importation laws. These laws require you to provide a health certificate from your vet in order to legally move your puppy between states. There is no set format for the health certificate, but some states require that your puppy have been vaccinated against rabies within the last 12 months and you may have to re-vaccinate before legally transporting the animal. It's best to check the laws of the state to which you're moving so you can get what you need from your veterinarian.