Microchipping: Apex vs Cary
How do microchipping rules compare between Apex, NC and Cary, NC?
Apex and Cary have similar restriction levels.
Apex, NC
Wake County
Wake County does not mandate microchipping. However, Wake County Code §91.32 and NCGS §130A-185 require every dog, cat, and ferret over 4 months old to be vaccinated against rabies and to wear a current rabies tag at all times.
View full Apex rules →Cary, NC
Wake County
Wake County does not mandate microchipping. However, Wake County Code §91.32 and NCGS §130A-185 require every dog, cat, and ferret over 4 months old to be vaccinated against rabies and to wear a current rabies tag at all times.
View full Cary rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Apex | Cary |
|---|---|---|
| Microchip required | No (recommended) | No (recommended) |
| Rabies vaccination | Mandatory at 4 months | Mandatory at 4 months |
| Tag display | At all times | At all times |
| Code citation | §91.32; NCGS §130A-185 | §91.32; NCGS §130A-185 |
| Low-cost clinics | Wake Animal Center | Wake Animal Center |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Apex FAQ
Does Wake County require me to microchip my dog?
No. Only rabies vaccination is mandatory under §91.32 and NCGS §130A-185, but microchipping is strongly recommended and offered at low-cost clinics.
What if my cat is indoor-only?
NC state law makes no exception — indoor cats over 4 months still must be vaccinated against rabies under NCGS §130A-185.
How often do I need to update rabies?
Per the vaccine manufacturer schedule — usually annual or every 3 years. Wake County requires a current tag at all times.
Cary FAQ
Does Wake County require me to microchip my dog?
No. Only rabies vaccination is mandatory under §91.32 and NCGS §130A-185, but microchipping is strongly recommended and offered at low-cost clinics.
What if my cat is indoor-only?
NC state law makes no exception — indoor cats over 4 months still must be vaccinated against rabies under NCGS §130A-185.
How often do I need to update rabies?
Per the vaccine manufacturer schedule — usually annual or every 3 years. Wake County requires a current tag at all times.
Compare other topics
See how Apex and Cary compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool