This bill amends the current rabies vaccination requirements for dogs, cats, and ferrets by allowing for exemptions under specific circumstances. The existing law, RSA 436:100, is repealed and replaced with new provisions that mandate vaccination for all dogs, cats, and ferrets aged three months and older, while also establishing a framework for exemptions. The new language allows local rabies control authorities to issue exemptions based on the written recommendation of a veterinarian, either from an American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine diplomate or a single veterinarian who has conducted titer testing. The exemption is valid for one year and must be recertified annually.

Additionally, the bill outlines conditions for animals exempted due to illness or medical conditions, requiring them to be kept in strict rabies isolation until they can be vaccinated. In contrast, animals exempted based on demonstrated immunity through titer testing are not subject to these isolation requirements. The bill also specifies the process for titer testing, which includes a baseline test before vaccination and a follow-up test to confirm the animal's immune response. Overall, the bill aims to provide flexibility in rabies vaccination requirements while ensuring public health and safety.