As in virtually every state in the US, California requires that dogs receive immunization against Rabies, a contagious lethal disease which can be transmitted from wildlife to dogs or cats, and from any infected mammal to a human.  Since 2008, veterinarians in Riverside County have been required by law to send names and addresses of owners of dogs receiving rabies inoculations.  Note that, as of this writing (September, 2010), there is no such requirement for pet cats in California, however we at Country Club Animal Clinic do recommend appropriate protection for cats as well.

Country Club Animal Clinic recently learned of a law requiring that all pets owned by Riverside County residents must be implanted with a permanent microchip.  While we have long advocated microchips as a permanent identifier, and routinely implant them, this requirement may have caught some of our clients unawares, as it did us.  We apologize for any inconvenience and will work closely with our clients to make sure that not only is your pet in compliance, but that the county also has this information.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions about this law.  More information may be found at Riverside Country Department of Animal Services website, or you may download the licensing form here.

Be aware that a recent scam targeting pet owners has surfaced in the Coachella Valley.  Pet owners receive a letter purported to come from an "independent investigative agency" working with the Department of Animal Services, instructing the pet owner to send a "filing fee" or the like to a Post Office Box.  If you receive such a letter, contact your local police department or Riverside County Animal Services.