Harris County Animal Control ordinance
Residents of Harris County must be aware of the regulations adopted by
Commissioners Court to meet the standards of the Texas Rabies Control Act of
1981. This ordinance, enforced by Harris County Rabies/Animal Control is
designed to protect the health and welfare of Harris County residents.
Requires the annual vaccination and registration of all dogs and cats four
months of age and older.
Requires dogs and cats to be physically restrained at all times, without
access to the sidewalks and streets.
NOTE: As of April 15, 2003, Harris county commissioners Court has approved an
amendment to the Harris County Regulation on rabies vaccinations for dogs and
cats. The regulation now state the following: Currently vaccinated is defined
as: An animal that has either (1) been vaccinated for rabies within the last 12
months; or, (2) received 2 rabies vaccinations within 12 months of each other
and the latter of these 2 rabies vaccination having been with a 3-year vaccine.
Sets a REGISTRATION FEE for all dogs and cats:
$15 LIFETIME: for neutered dogs and cats. Proof of neutering required.
$15 LIFETIME; for dogs and cats belonging to persons 65 years of age or
older.
NOTE: All pets with lifetime registration must be vaccinated yearly against
rabies.
$15 ANNUAL: fee for all other dogs and cats.
$3 REPLACEMENT fee for Harris County tag.
Sets an IMPOUNDMENT FEE plus a boarding fee to be charged for each animal picked
up. Owner may also be issued a citation for allowing the animal to run loose.
OTHER
Impounded animals shall be kept three days to allow the owner time to
redeem them.
The occupant/head of household of any premises on which a dog or cat remains
for a period of seven days is presumed to be the owner of that animal.
All animals suspected of rabies, or animals that bite, scratch or otherwise
attack any person shall be impounded at the discretion of the County Health
Officer, for a period of ten days under veterinary observation.
Violators of any provision of this order are guilty of a misdemeanor and are
subject to a fine of up to $200 in a Justice of the Peace Court.
SOURCE
Harris county Health Department, Rabies/Animal Control Section, 2223 West
Loop South, Houston, Texas 77027-3588,
http://www.countypets.com/
George Hintz 4/12/5