Vermont Rabies Vaccination Laws for Dogs and Cats

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

Vermont rabies vaccine rules at a glance

Question	Answer
Animals covered	Dogs and wolf-hybrids
First vaccination	Over 3 months
First booster	Within 9 to 12 months
Later boosters	Every 36 months
Statute	20 V.S.A. 3581

What Vermont law says

20 V.S.A. 3581(e) sets the schedule.
Only USDA-approved three-year vaccines may be used.
A vet can grant a medical exemption (MSU).

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

Vermont's state law covers dogs and wolf-hybrids. Cat vaccination is not required by state statute, but towns and veterinarians may require or recommend it.

Rabies vaccination is also tied to licensing in many places; see Vermont 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.