Delaware Rabies Vaccination Laws for Dogs and Cats

Delaware requires rabies vaccination by state law. Here is who must be vaccinated, when, and how the rules are enforced.

Delaware rabies vaccine rules at a glance

Question	Answer
Animals covered	Dogs, cats and ferrets
First vaccination	6 months
Who can vaccinate	Licensed veterinarian
Exemption	Medical, with vet certificate
Statute	3 Del. C. 8204

What Delaware law says

3 Del. C. 8204 sets the vaccination requirement (MSU).
Licensing requires rabies proof or an exemption (16 Del. C. 3042F).

How rabies boosters work

The first rabies vaccine is treated as good for one year, no matter which product is used. After the one-year booster, vaccines labeled for three years are generally accepted as protecting for three years, if state and local law allow it (Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control). Your rabies certificate shows the exact due date, and that date is what animal control and licensing offices go by. More detail: how long a rabies shot is good for.

Cats and other pets

Delaware's law covers cats and ferrets, so they need rabies shots by 6 months too.

Rabies vaccination is also tied to licensing in many places; see Delaware dog license requirements. Your local veterinarian or a low-cost vaccine clinic can give the shot and issue the certificate and tag.

Sources

This page summarizes state statutes for general information and is not legal advice. Laws change and cities and counties often add their own rules; check the current statute and your local ordinance, or ask a licensed attorney about your situation.