What are the vaccination requirements in Miami-Dade County?

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Rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats are required by law.

• The pet owner must be at least 18 years old
• Dogs and cats must be four months old
• The dog or cat must be registered in Miami-Dade County, though the owner does not have to be a Miami-Dade resident
• In lieu of a late fee, pet owners have a 30-day grace period from the license and rabies vaccine expiration date to renew their pet's license and rabies vaccination. Failure to renew within the grace period will result in the issuance of a civil violation notice

Exemptions

• Your dog or cat may be exempted from the rabies vaccine up to one year for health reasons
• A written notice signed by a licensed veterinarian must be submitted to Animal Services within 30 days of the vaccine expiration date. If your dog has ongoing health issues, the rabies exemption written request must be submitted annually. (Please note: The dog license tag is still required regardless of the rabies vaccine exemption. Renewal must occur within 30 days of the license expiration date.)
• Vaccination Exemption Letters can be submitted:
  • By email to [email protected] 
  • By mail at 3599 NW 79th Avenue, Doral, FL 33122, or
  • In person at ASD's Pet Center (address above) with a Wellness Clinic Appointment.
  • or at any of the 311 Service Centers
• Pets can't be vaccinated when pregnant, but can be vaccinated when nursing
• Greyhounds kept, maintained or brought into Miami-Dade County for the purpose of racing at licensed greyhound tracks are exempt. So are dogs used as part of entertainment acts when properly controlled, or dogs that remain in the Miami-Dade for less than 30 days