Bill tabled on alternative to rabies vaccine

A bill that would excuse some pet owners from vaccinating their pets against rabies has been tabled after veterinarians and health professionals warned of public health risks.

House Bill 238 would give pet owners whose animals are sick or have compromised immune systems the opportunity to ask for a Titer test to determine whether the animal needs a mandated rabies shot. A Titer test, used routinely by veterinarians to make sure the vets have antibodies to combat rabies, would do the same for pets, said Rep. Ron Gray, R-Laurel, sponsor of the bill.

“The bill allows an exemption if a veterinarian deems appropriate,” he said during testimony May 9 in the House Health & Human Development Committee. “We are against over vaccinating pets.”

Al Casapulla said he lost his 10-pound shih tzu, Maggie, after the dog received 13 shots and became gravely ill. “Sixteen months and $12,000, later she died,” he said. “She suffered, and it was devastating. They vaccinated my dog for things she wouldn't be exposed to.”

Casapulla and about a dozen others attended the committee hearing to support a bill that they say could save animals.

Joining them was John Robb, a veterinarian from Connecticut, who said a Titer test can detect antibodies to determine an animal's level of immunity. “Immunity can sometimes last a lifetime. Titer is a definitive test,” he said.

Delaware veterinarians and state health officials disagreed.

“This bill will be harmful to animal health,” said Heather Hurst, state veterinarian who serves in the Department of Agriculture. “I would never use a Titer to say my animal is protected.”

Deputy State Veterinarian Karen Lopez said only a rabies shot can protect animals and the public from the fatal disease. She said pets often come in contact with rabid wildlife; rabies can easily be spread to humans, and vaccinations are the best way to prevent a public health epidemic.

“To protect our animals they must be kept up-to-date with vaccines,” she said.

Hurst said vaccination decisions should be made between a pet owner and veterinarian, and legislation is not needed. “No vet has been penalized for not giving shots,” she said.

The bill was tabled after failing to receive enough votes to move it out of committee. It is listed on the House health & human development committee for June 20.