How to bring a dog into Israel? - briefly
To bring a dog into Israel, you must obtain an import permit from the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Additionally, your dog should be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before arrival, and have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.
How to bring a dog into Israel? - in detail
Bringing a dog into Israel involves several steps and requirements to ensure the health and safety of both the animal and the public. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:
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Microchipping: Before any other procedures, your dog must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant transponder. This is a standardized identification system that allows for easy tracking and verification of the animal's identity.
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Rabies Vaccination: Israel requires dogs to be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entry but not more than one year prior to arrival. The vaccine must be inactivated and comply with the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) standards. If your dog has not been previously vaccinated, you will need to wait 30 days after the initial vaccination before traveling.
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Blood Test: After the rabies vaccination, a blood test must be conducted by an approved laboratory at least 30 days but no more than three years before arrival in Israel. This test is crucial as it verifies that the vaccine has been effective and your dog's antibody levels are sufficient.
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Health Certificate: Obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating that your dog is healthy and fit to travel. This document should be issued no more than 10 days before departure.
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Import Permit: Apply for an import permit from the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. You will need to submit the health certificate, rabies vaccination record, and blood test results along with your application. The permit is typically valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
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Quarantine: Upon arrival in Israel, your dog may be subjected to a quarantine period, depending on the country of origin and compliance with health regulations. Quarantine facilities are located at Ben Gurion Airport and can last up to 30 days. During this time, the dog will undergo additional health checks to ensure it is free from diseases.
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Flea and Tick Treatment: Before entering Israel, ensure your dog has been treated for fleas and ticks within the past six months. This treatment should be documented in the health certificate.
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Transportation: Choose a reliable airline that is experienced in transporting pets. Notify the airline well in advance of your travel plans to ensure they can accommodate your dog. Some airlines may have specific requirements or restrictions regarding pet transportation.
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Appropriate Crate: Purchase an appropriate crate for your dog that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
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Arrival Procedures: Once you arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, proceed directly to the animal import office with all necessary documents. Staff will review your paperwork and guide you through any additional procedures required before your dog is cleared for entry into Israel.
By following these detailed steps, you can ensure a smooth process for bringing your dog into Israel, ensuring both the health of your pet and compliance with Israeli regulations.