There is a vet in Indianapolis, IN who is issuing rabies certificates for ferrets with an expiration date of 3 years from the date of administration of the vaccine. The IMRAB 3 vaccination is what is being used. It is clearly stated on the Center for Disease Control website that ferrets need to be vaccinated for rabies on an annual basis. This was also listed on the 06/25/04 weekly issue of the "Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report" published by the CDC. I spoke with the vet tech at the vet's office, as the vet is "too busy to return a phone call of such nature". She said that IMRAB 3 is a 3 year vaccination for ferrets. I argued with her that yes, it is a 3 year vaccination, but it is to be administered annually for ferrets. There is no scientific proof that it "lasts" 3 years in ferrets. She said that it does last 3 years in ferrets, and that is what they us. I mentioned to her that the website of the CDC makes note that ferrets being administered IMRAB 3 need to be vaccinated on an annual basis in each state. She said that they don't read the CDC website. I also noted that I don't either, but when I take in a ferret that someone gave to me with the rabies paperwork and I notice this, I am going to question the practice. Needless to say, she was tongue tied. If there are any lawyers "in da house", could this be a potential legal issue if the ferret were to scratch or bite someone and they reported it to someone in the state? I know it might be on a state by state basis, but I think it would pose a problem. I am probably out of line contacting the vet, but this really irks me. Any thoughts on this? And no flames, please. I am trying to get to the bottom of a matter that could potentially put ferret owners who aren't educated about the vaccine at risk. [Posted in FML issue 4649]