Rabies observation could be ordered through New York veterinary hospitals

Albany, N.Y. — New York now requires animals that have been exposed to rabies to go through a 10-day confinement and observation period in a secured facility, like a veterinarian's office.

Assembly Bill 3338 takes effect at the end of December. Dogs, cats, ferrets and domestic livestock that aren't exhibiting symptoms of rabies infections (but could expose a human to rabies) must be confined and observed if the owner of the animal wants to avoid euthanasia and testing, the law states. County health officials may grant home confinements to animals that were actively immunized at the time of rabies exposure.

If the county health authority does not approve home confinement, however, the 10-day confinement and observation period must take place at the owner's expense and at an appropriate facility, including a veterinarian's office, animal shelter or kennel. The confinement facility must also notify public health authorities if the animal becomes ill during the observation period.