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Israel – Importing a Pet

If you are planning to move to Israel with your furry friend, there are some important things you need to know before you start the process. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about importing your pet to Israel.

Israel’s Pet Importation Rules

Israel does allow the import of pets, but there are some restrictions in place.

Restrictions on types of pets

The types of pets that can be brought into Israel are dogs, cats, and small birds, such as canaries, parakeets, and finches. However, certain breeds of dogs, such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Staffordshire Terriers, are not allowed to enter the country. Additionally, certain types of birds, such as birds of prey, are also prohibited.

Restrictions on number of pets

There are no specific restrictions on the number of pets that can be brought into Israel, but you will need to be able to show that you can provide adequate care for all of your animals.


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Vaccination Requirements in Israel

There are certain vaccination requirements for bringing pets to Israel. Dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies, and the vaccination must have been administered at least 30 days before the date of arrival in Israel. Additionally, dogs must also be vaccinated against distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, and parvovirus.

Importation Application Procedure in Israel

The process for importing a pet to Israel can be quite lengthy, so it’s important to start the process as early as possible.

Paperwork requirements

Before you can bring your pet to Israel, you will need to obtain the following documents:

  • A health certificate from a licensed veterinarian in your home country
  • Proof of vaccination against rabies and other diseases
  • A certificate of origin for your pet

Quarantine requirements

Dogs and cats may be subject to a quarantine period upon arrival in Israel, depending on their country of origin. Pets coming from certain countries may be subject to a shorter quarantine period or may not be subject to quarantine at all. You should check with the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture to determine whether your pet will need to be quarantined.

International Travel Scheme for Pets

Israel is part of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), which allows pets to travel between certain countries without undergoing quarantine. However, the requirements for PETS are quite strict, and not all countries are eligible.

Pet Licenses in Israel

You will need to obtain a license for your pet in Israel. The licensing requirements vary depending on the municipality where you live, but in general, you will need to provide proof of vaccination and pay a fee to obtain a license.

Resources

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has a website with information about importing pets to Israel. The website provides information on the requirements for importing pets, including vaccination and documentation requirements. It also includes a list of approved countries and territories from which pets can be imported without quarantine.

Link: https://www.moag.gov.il/en/Animals/Pages/import-export.aspx

In conclusion, bringing a pet into Israel requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that all requirements are met. It is important to research the specific requirements for the type of pet being imported and to allow plenty of time for obtaining the necessary documentation and vaccinations.

The process for importing a pet to Israel involves obtaining a veterinary certificate, ensuring that all necessary vaccinations are up to date, and undergoing a veterinary inspection upon arrival. While there is no mandatory quarantine period, pets may be subject to quarantine or other measures if there are any concerns about their health.

It is also important to note that Israel is a member of the European Union’s Pet Travel Scheme, which allows pets to travel from certain countries without the need for quarantine. However, it is still important to check the specific requirements for the country of origin and to ensure that all necessary documentation and vaccinations are in order.

Overall, with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to safely and legally bring a pet into Israel. The relevant government website provides a useful resource for information on the requirements for importing pets to Israel.