Homepage Fill in Your Rabies Certificate Template
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The Rabies Certificate form serves an essential role in public health and animal safety, particularly regarding pets. It is a crucial document that indicates whether an animal has been vaccinated against rabies, a potentially fatal disease. The form is standardized under NASPHV Form 51, revised in 2007, and includes several important sections. Owners must provide their contact information, including name, address, and telephone number, which allows for easy communication if necessary. The certificate requires details about the animal, such as species, age, size, breed, and distinguishing marks. Additionally, it captures specifics about the rabies vaccination, including the veterinarian's details, product name, and the manufacturer. Owners should pay attention to the vaccine's serial number and the next vaccination date to ensure compliance. The veterinarian’s signature is also vital, confirming that proper protocols were followed during the vaccination process. With all this information consolidated into one form, tracking pets' rabies vaccinations becomes streamlined for owners and animal control officials alike.

Sample - Rabies Certificate Form

 

 

 

RABIES VACCINATION CERTIFICATE

 

 

Push to Print Form

 

Push to Reset Form

 

 

NASPHV FORM 51 (revised 2007)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RABIES TAG #

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Owner's Name & Address

Print Clearly

MICROCHIP #

 

 

 

 

 

LAST

FIRST

M.I.

TELEPHONE #

 

NO.STREET

CITY

STATE

ZIP

SPECIES

AGE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIZE

PREDOMINANT BREED

PREDOMINANT

Dog

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Months

Under 20 lbs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COLORS/MARKINGS

Cat

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Years

 

 

20 - 50 lbs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ferret

 

 

 

 

SEX

 

 

Male

Over 50 lbs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Female

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ANIMAL NAME

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Neutered

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(specify)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Animal Control License

 

 

 

 

 

1 Yr

 

 

 

3 Yr

 

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DATE VACCINATED

Product Name:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Veterinarian's Name:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Manufacturer:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Month / Day / Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

License Number:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(First 3 letters)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 Yr USDA Licensed Vaccine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEXT VACCINATION

 

 

 

 

 

3 Yr USDA Licensed Vaccine

 

 

 

Veterinarian's Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DUE BY:

 

 

 

 

 

4 Yr USDA Licensed Vaccine

Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Initial dose

 

 

Booster dose

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Month / Day / Year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vaccine Serial (lot) Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

File Specs

Fact Name Description
Purpose The Rabies Certificate form is used to document the rabies vaccination of animals, typically dogs, cats, and ferrets.
Form Identification This form is identified as NASPHV FORM 51 and was revised in 2007.
Required Information The form requires the owner's name, address, phone number, and details about the animal such as species, age, and predominant breed.
Vaccination Duration The form allows for different vaccination durations: 1 year, 3 years, or other as specified.
Manufacturer Information The name of the vaccine manufacturer must be included, as well as the product name and serial number of the vaccine.
Veterinarian Details The veterinarian must provide their name, license number, and signature to validate the vaccination.
State-Specific Regulations Compliance with state laws regarding rabies vaccination documentation is necessary; for instance, in California, Health and Safety Code Section 121690 governs these requirements.

Rabies Certificate - Usage Guidelines

Completing the Rabies Certificate form is a straightforward process. Once you have your animal’s vaccination details ready, follow these steps to ensure everything is filled out correctly.

  1. Print the form clearly to ensure all information is legible.
  2. Fill in the Rabies Tag number, if applicable.
  3. Enter the Owner's Name and Address:
    • First Name
    • Last Name
    • Middle Initial
    • Street Address
    • City
    • State
    • ZIP Code
  4. Provide the Telephone number.
  5. Indicate the Species of the animal.
  6. Enter the Age of the animal:
    • Months for Dogs
    • Years for Cats or Ferrets
  7. Specify the Size of the animal:
    • Under 20 lbs.
    • 20-50 lbs.
    • Over 50 lbs.
    • Other: (specify)
  8. List the PREDOMINANT BREED of the animal.
  9. Describe the Colors/Markings of the animal.
  10. Indicate the Sex:
    • Male
    • Female
  11. Write the Animal Name.
  12. State if the animal is Neutered (specify).
  13. Provide the Animal Control License details:
    • 1 Yr
    • 3 Yr
    • Other
  14. Enter the DATE VACCINATED in Month/Day/Year format.
  15. Fill in the Product Name of the vaccine.
  16. Write the Veterinarian's Name and License Number (first three letters).
  17. Specify the Manufacturer of the vaccine.
  18. Indicate the NEXT VACCINATION DUE BY date in Month/Day/Year format.
  19. Choose the vaccine type:
    • 1 Yr USDA Licensed Vaccine
    • 3 Yr USDA Licensed Vaccine
    • 4 Yr USDA Licensed Vaccine
  20. Have the Veterinarian's Signature added.
  21. Fill in the Address of the veterinarian.
  22. Document both the Initial dose and Booster dose dates in Month/Day/Year format.
  23. Write the Vaccine Serial (lot) Number.

Your Questions, Answered

What is a Rabies Certificate?

A Rabies Certificate is an official document that confirms an animal has been vaccinated against rabies. This certificate serves as proof that the animal has received the rabies vaccine, often required for travel, boarding, or during adoption processes.

Who needs to obtain a Rabies Certificate?

Pet owners are responsible for obtaining a Rabies Certificate for their dogs, cats, ferrets, and certain other animals. This document is crucial when you are traveling, moving to a new state, or when your pet is participating in certain activities such as dog shows or boarding.

How can I get a Rabies Certificate for my pet?

To acquire a Rabies Certificate, schedule a visit with a licensed veterinarian. The veterinarian will administer the rabies vaccine and then provide the certificate upon successful vaccination. Make sure your veterinarian completes all necessary fields on the certificate form for it to be valid.

What details are included in the Rabies Certificate?

The certificate includes important information such as the animal's name, species, age, size, breed, microchip number (if applicable), the owner's name and contact information, as well as the vaccination date and the vaccine manufacturer's details. It also indicates when the next vaccination is due.

How long is a Rabies Certificate valid?

The validity of a Rabies Certificate usually depends on the type of vaccine administered. Some vaccines are effective for one year, while others may provide coverage for three or even four years. Always check your pet's specific vaccine details to ensure compliance with local laws.

What happens if my pet’s Rabies Certificate expires?

If your pet’s Rabies Certificate expires, your pet will need to receive a booster vaccination. After receiving the booster, ask your veterinarian for a new certificate. It's important to keep your pet's vaccinations up to date not only for health reasons but also to adhere to local regulations.

Can I print the Rabies Certificate myself?

Yes, you can print the Rabies Certificate after your veterinarian completes it, as long as you have a digital or physical copy. Ensure that it is printed clearly and retains all required information for it to be accepted by authorities or facilities.

Common mistakes

  1. Illegible Writing: When filling out the form, it is crucial to print clearly. If the information is difficult to read, it may lead to delays or issues in processing the certificate.

  2. Incorrect or Missing Rabies Tag Number: Ensure that the rabies tag number is filled out correctly. This is essential for identifying the vaccine given to the animal.

  3. Failing to Update Owner's Information: If there has been a change in the owner’s address or contact information, it must be updated on the form. Inaccurate information can complicate communication.

  4. Inaccurate Animal Details: Providing incorrect details about the animal, such as the species, breed, or age, can create confusion. It is important to verify this information before submitting the form.

  5. Omitting the Microchip Number: If the animal is microchipped, the microchip number needs to be included. This helps in identification should the animal get lost.

  6. Wrong Vaccination Date: Ensure that the date of vaccination is accurately entered. A wrong date could affect future vaccination schedules.

  7. Missing Veterinarian's Information: The veterinarian’s signature, name, and license number must be provided. This verifies that the vaccination was performed by a licensed professional.

  8. Overlooking Vaccine Product Name and Manufacturer: It is vital to include the vaccine product name and the manufacturer's details. Incomplete information might render the certificate invalid.

  9. Not Specifying If the Animal is Neutered: This detail should not be overlooked. Indicating whether the animal is neutered can impact regulations and requirements for specific areas.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with pet vaccinations and health records, several additional documents are often required alongside the Rabies Certificate form. Understanding each of these forms can help ensure that your pet’s vaccination and health status are clearly documented and compliant with regulations. Below is a list of common documents that may accompany the Rabies Certificate.

  • Veterinary Health Certificate: This document provides an overall health assessment of your pet. It's often required when traveling or relocating with your pet, ensuring they are free of contagious diseases.
  • Microchip Registration Form: This form certifies that your pet has been microchipped. It includes details about the microchip and ensures that your pet can be identified if lost.
  • Pet Vaccination Record: This record details all vaccinations your pet has received, including dates and types of vaccines. Keeping an updated vaccination record is crucial for health and travel purposes.
  • Animal Control License: Many areas require pets to be licensed with local animal control. This document shows that your pet is registered in your municipality.
  • Consent Form: If your veterinarian requires consent for vaccinations or treatments, this form outlines the procedures and your approval before the services are performed.
  • Emergency Contact Form: In case of an emergency, this form lists who to contact if you are unavailable. It can help ensure your pet receives immediate care when needed.
  • Travel Documentation: If you plan to travel internationally with your pet, additional paperwork may be needed. This document ensures compliance with the destination country's health regulations.
  • Pet Insurance Policy: This document outlines your pet’s insurance coverage. It can be critical for accessing veterinary care without worrying about finances.

Each of these documents serves a specific purpose and can significantly impact your pet’s care and your peace of mind. Staying organized and informed about these forms helps maintain your pet's health records efficiently.

Similar forms

The Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) serves a vital role when animals are transported across state lines. Much like the Rabies Certificate, the CVI provides a record of an animal's health status. It includes details about the animal, such as species, breed, and identification number, along with the certification that it has been examined by a veterinarian. This document ensures that an animal is free of contagious diseases, thus safeguarding public health and animal welfare during travel.

The Health Certificate is another document that bears similarity to the Rabies Certificate. Primarily required by state laws, the Health Certificate attests to an animal's current health for both pets and livestock. It typically outlines vaccination records, much like those found on the Rabies Certificate. This document aims to prevent the spread of diseases, aiding in the protection of all animals in the vicinity.

The Pet Vaccination Record encapsulates an animal’s entire vaccination history. It shares commonalities with the Rabies Certificate in that both documents detail the vaccination status of an animal. With specific data on vacination dates, types of vaccines administered, and the veterinarian's signature, it's essential for keeping track of ongoing health needs. Pet owners often rely on this record when visiting new vets or traveling.

The Microchip Registration form is also comparable to the Rabies Certificate, as it provides essential identification for an animal. While primarily serving as a tool for lost pet recovery, the form includes identification details that may overlap with information found on the Rabies Certificate, such as the owner's information. This document ensures that there is a reliable way to connect an animal with its rightful owner, enhancing animal safety.

The Animal Control License is another document that parallels the Rabies Certificate in importance for pet ownership regulation. This license indicates that an animal has been properly registered with local authorities, which often includes rabies vaccination as a prerequisite. The information typically provided includes the owner's details and the specific animal's identification, mirroring the records kept on a Rabies Certificate.

The Dog License, required in many municipalities, serves as a similar document to the Rabies Certificate. The license ensures that a dog is vaccinated against rabies, meeting community health standards. Like the Rabies Certificate, it carries identifying information about the dog and its owner, cementing the responsibility of pet ownership and the importance of vaccinations for public health.

The Declaration of Importation is another relevant counterpart. This form is generally needed when an animal enters the U.S. from abroad. It includes critical health information and vaccination history, including rabies vaccination status, paralleling the Rabies Certificate’s intent of ensuring the health and safety of both the imported animal and local populations.

The Certificate of Good Health is issued by veterinarians and serves to confirm an animal's overall well-being. This document can focus on various health matters, including vaccination status, just like the Rabies Certificate. It provides reassurance to pet owners and shelters alike that an animal is fit for adoption or transport, thus promoting the welfare of animals in transition.

Lastly, the Spay/Neuter Certificate is relevant in showing that an animal has undergone the procedure. Although it focuses on sterilization, it often comes with vaccination requirements, including rabies. Similar to the Rabies Certificate, it provides necessary documentation to pet owners and shelters, contributing to responsible pet ownership and population control initiatives.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Rabies Certificate form, attention to detail is crucial. Here are five things to remember.

  • Do ensure all fields are filled out legibly. Use capital letters to avoid confusion.
  • Do check and verify the rabies tag number. This is essential for accurate record-keeping.
  • Do include the veterinarian's license number. This is a requirement for certification.
  • Do provide the correct vaccination dates. Inaccuracies can lead to complications.
  • Do double-check the animal’s details, including species and breed. Accurate information is critical.

There are also things to avoid when completing this form:

  • Don't leave any sections blank. Incomplete forms can be rejected.
  • Don't use abbreviations in fields like the owner's name or address. Clarity is key.
  • Don't forget to sign the form. An unsigned certificate is invalid.
  • Don't use non-USDA licensed vaccines. Only recognized vaccines should be listed.
  • Don't rush through the process. Take your time to ensure everything is accurate.

Misconceptions

Here are some common misconceptions about the Rabies Certificate form that might lead to confusion:

  1. Only dogs need a rabies certificate. Many people believe that rabies vaccination is only required for dogs. In reality, cats and ferrets also require it in many areas.
  2. The form is only necessary for travel. Some think this certificate is only needed for travel purposes. However, local laws often mandate it for pet ownership as well.
  3. All veterinarians can fill out any rabies certificate. Not all veterinarians are authorized to sign these certificates. They must use a USDA licensed vaccine.
  4. A rabies certificate lasts forever. This is not true. Rabies vaccinations can vary in duration, requiring renewals every one to three years.
  5. You can handwrite the information on the form. While it may be tempting, the form must be filled out clearly and typically in the required format, often printed.
  6. The rabies tag number is optional. This number is usually very important and helps ensure that vaccinations can be accurately tracked.
  7. This form is just for pets that show symptoms of rabies. In fact, the rabies certificate is preventive. It is required regardless of any symptoms.
  8. Any vaccine can be used for the certificate. Only USDA licensed vaccines should be documented on this form for it to be valid.
  9. The form doesn’t require the owner’s contact information. The owner’s details are crucial for identification and communication in case of any health concerns.
  10. You can skip the microchip information. Providing a microchip number, when applicable, enhances the certificate’s validity and helps with pet identification.

Key takeaways

When filling out and utilizing the Rabies Certificate form, several key points are important to understand. These points ensure proper completion and compliance with regulations.

  • Clarity is essential. Write all information clearly to avoid any misunderstandings.
  • Accurate details matter. Ensure that the owner's name, address, and telephone number are correct.
  • Animal identification needs to be precise. Include the species, age, size, and predominant breed of the animal.
  • Provide complete vaccination information. Note the date vaccinated, the product name, and the manufacturer's details.
  • Certification requires veterinarian involvement. Obtain the veterinarian's signature for validation.
  • Document both initial and booster doses. This helps in maintaining an accurate vaccination history.
  • Understand vaccination duration. The certificate should specify whether the vaccination is for one year, three years, or four years.
  • Take note of the rabies tag number. This unique identifier should be recorded on the form.
  • Check for compliance. Ensure the vaccine used is USDA licensed to meet regulatory requirements.
  • Follow up on next vaccination dates. This ensures timely renewal of vaccinations for pets.

By adhering to these takeaways, pet owners can facilitate a smooth process in managing rabies vaccinations and maintaining necessary records.