§ 2-4-7. Report of animal bites/exposure to rabies/animal quarantine.

(a)

When any individual has been exposed to rabies by any animal or has knowledge that an individual has been exposed to rabies, that individual must report the incident promptly to the county health department. The individual making the report shall state, to the best of his knowledge, the name, address, and telephone number of the individual who has been exposed to rabies; the time and place of such exposure; and if known, the location, description, and type of animal involved, information about the owner, and circumstances surrounding the incident.

(b)

The director or administrator of the county health department or the appropriate state health officer shall determine which animals are subject to quarantine and shall issue appropriate instructions pursuant to the applicable provisions of the Florida Administrative Code.

(c)

No person shall refuse to surrender to an authorized representative of the public health department, animal services officer, law enforcement officer, or any other person designated by the county health unit any animal that has bitten a person. Any attempt to hide, conceal or release such an animal, or interfere with the impoundment of such an animal, shall also be a violation of this ordinance.

(d)

No person shall vaccinate an animal against rabies, or kill or euthanize an animal which said person knows or suspects has bitten, scratched or otherwise harmfully attacked another animal or person without the express approval and authorization of the officials of the county health department.

(Ord. No. 12-10, § 1, 5-8-12)