Fact Sheet: Animal Quarantine
KNOW THE FACTS!
Animal Quarantine
Animal QuarantineAny animal involved in an animal bite incident is required by Ohio law to be quarantined for at least 10 days after the animal bite occurred.
Why does my animal need to be quarantined?
Any animal involved in an animal bite incident is required by Ohio Administrative Code Section 3701-1-29 to be quarantined for at least 10 days after the animal bite occurred.
Why is quarantining my animal important?
Rabies is an infectious, viral disease that affects the nervous system of humans and other mammals. There is no treatment for rabies after symptoms of the disease appear. Quarantine limits the animal’s contact with other animals and people, reducing exposure if the animal involved does have rabies. Quarantine also allows veterinarians and health officials to observe the animal for any signs or symptoms associated with the rabies virus.
How do I quarantine my animal?
Until the animal is released from quarantine, an owner cannot:
- give the animal away
- kill the animal
- relocate the animal outside Hamilton County
Note: Invisible fences are not considered an adequate
means of quarantine.
How is the animal released from quarantine
A licensed veterinarian can release an animal from quarantine. After the 10 day quarantine period has expired, a veterinarian must examine the animal, confirm that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies, and sign the Animal Bite Investigation Form. A signed Animal Bite Investigation Form must be returned to our office to officially close an animal bite investigation.
What if the animal becomes aggressive, attacks, loses muscular control, exhibits unusual salivation, or dies during the quarantine period?
Contact our office and your veterinarian immediately. If the animal must be taken to SPCA, notify the SPCA that the animal is under quarantine by the Hamilton County Board of Health. Call 513-946-7800 if you have any questions.
For more information, call Hamilton County Public Health at (513) 946-7844.
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250 William Howard Taft Road 2nd Floor, Cincinnati, OH 45219 Phone 513.946.7800 Fax 513.946.7890 hamiltoncountyhealth.org |