At one year and two months old, Daisy, a sleek, majestic Black Labrador, looks rather intimidating. Though floppy most of the time, her ears are always alert, her eyes lock on target like lasers, and her stance is akin to that of a predator poised to pounce. She often scares the socks off unsuspecting passersby with a ferocious bark. But Daisy’s paw-pals and human friends know the reality behind her seemingly aggressive demeanor. Daisy is a scaredy-cat! The slightest sound and snap startle her. Her body tenses, and the hair on her back rises to resemble porcupine needle quills. She recoils in fear and barks like a holy terror.
Yet Daisy has never attacked anyone nor bitten a human. Her parents ensured that she was trained by a certified dog trainer and passed her “doggie exam” (though her report card recommends more practice in some areas). More to the point, the bright red rabies tag on her collar reassures neighbors and friends—old and new—that on the off-chance playful Daisy nibbles on anyone’s toe or accidentally sinks an eager tooth while extracting a doggie treat from a generous hand, she will not infect them with the deadly rabies virus.
According to the CDC, rabies is a viral disease commonly transmitted through a bite from a rabid animal. The rabies vaccine stimulates an animal that has been bitten to develop its own neutralizing antibodies to the virus (VCA Animal Hospitals). However, the vaccine is only effective if it is administered before the virus enters the nervous system. After that, it’s too late. A rabies tag attached to a dog’s collar is proof—visible from a distance—that the pet has been inoculated and poses no deadly danger.
We love our pets as we do children. It behooves us to be responsible for their healthcare and abide by the animal laws dictated by our state and county. When Daisy visits the neighborhood dog park, the brightly colored rabies tag on her collar indicates to other pet owners that she is healthy and not a disease hazard to them or their beloved pets. This allows for unbridled playtime for friends of all breeds.
To get a dog license in New York State—as is the requirement in most states—the pet must be up to date with the rabies vaccine. Ketchum has delightful customizable options for dog license tags. You can choose from a variety of materials, colors, and shapes to suit your pet’s personality and your purse. All Ketchum pet tags are manufactured locally in upstate New York.
While it may not be mandated by all states and counties, many do require the rabies tag to be worn on the dog’s collar and be visible whenever the pet leaves home. Pet owners can incur hefty fines if their furry friend is spotted outdoors without a rabies tag. That includes walks, visits to the dog run, and all other excursions where the pet may come in contact with other animals and humans. Keeping the tag in one’s pocket or purse is not acceptable.
According to the ASPCA,…
The New York City Health Code requires every dog owner/walker to be able to produce proof of current dog license and rabies vaccination while in public—the easiest way to do this is to affix to your dog’s collar the vaccination tag from your vet and the city license tag you’ll receive in the mail from the DOHMH. Violation of these laws may result in fines.
Some states do not mandate wearing a rabies tag. Rabies is not present on the island state of Hawaii, but it does have strict rules for pets relocating there or just visiting. If your pooch accompanies you on your travels, it is best to have a rabies tag always attached to the collar.
Reasons Your Dog Should Wear a Rabies Tag:
- A rabies tag can assist in identifying a pet.
- A rabies tag can help in finding the dog’s home, instead of it ending up in a shelter.
- If your pet is wearing a rabies tag, you will not have to carry the physical proof of vaccination every time you take your pet out for a stroll or on vacation.
- You will not be fined for not having the requisite rabies tag.
- Other pet owners and animal lovers will be friendly if they see a rabies tag.
- A current rabies tag ensures your pet’s good health and longevity.
- The date on the rabies tag serves as a ready reminder for the next shot.
- Owners of multiple pets can keep track of shots by the date on the rabies tags.
- Breeders can keep track of vaccinations for all their residents wearing rabies tags.
- Pet groomers are instantly welcoming dogs wearing a rabies tag.
- Boarding at kennels is easier when the rabies tag is visible.
- You don’t have to worry about your pet sitter misplacing your dog’s proof of vaccination.
- In case of an accidental bite, the victim is more likely to be understanding and forgiving if your dog has a rabies tag.
- If you put your pet up for adoption, they are more likely to receive favorable attention from prospective parents.
And if you need any other further reason to get a rabies tag for your pet, here’s an irresistible one: because you love that sweet animal! Rabies tags for 2022 are now available at our website.
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