Section 3-7A-1

Definitions.

As used in this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings respectively ascribed to them unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

(1) CANINE CORPS DOGS. Those members of the canine family maintained by governmental agencies for exclusive use in official duties assigned to those agencies. Seeing eye dogs shall be included within the meaning of this definition.

(2) CAT. All members of the domesticated feline (Felis catus) family three months of age or older.

(3) DOG. All members of the domesticated canine (Canis familiaris) family three months of age or older.

(4) HAS BEEN EXPOSED. Seized with the teeth or claws, so that the skin of the person or animal seized has been nipped or gripped, or has been wounded or pierced and includes suspected or confirmed contact of saliva with a break or abrasion of the skin or with any mucous membrane, as determined by a licensed physician.

(5) HEALTH OFFICER. A county health officer as defined in Section 22-3-2.

(6) IMMUNIZATION AGAINST RABIES. The injection, in a manner approved by the State Health Officer and the State Veterinarian, of antirabies vaccine approved by the State Health Officer and the State Veterinarian. The administration of antirabies vaccine to species other than those for which reliable immunization data is available shall be a violation of this chapter.

(7) IMPOUNDING OFFICER. An agent of a county or municipality vested with impounding authority for animals covered under this chapter.

(8) OWNER. Any person having a right of property in the animal, or who keeps or harbors the animal, or who has it in his care, or acts as its custodian, or who permits the animal to remain on or about any premises occupied by him.

(9) PERSON. Individuals, firms, partnerships, and associations.

(10) QUARANTINE FOR RABIES OBSERVATION. Confinement under the direct care, custody, control, and supervision of a licensed veterinarian for a period of 10 days subsequent to the date of the exposure, or as otherwise directed by the State Health Officer.

(11) RABIES OFFICER. A licensed veterinarian as defined in Section 34-29-61, duly appointed by the county board of health and approved by the State Health Officer and State Veterinarian.

(Acts 1990, No. 90-530, p. 816, §1.)