Moving to Israel with a Pet

Moving to Israel with a pet involves some careful planning and understanding of the country's regulations. Israel has strict guidelines regarding pet imports, including vaccination requirements and necessary paperwork. Unlike some countries, Israel does not typically require quarantine for pets upon arrival. However, it's important to note that having a pet, especially dogs, is less common in Israel compared to other Western countries due to cultural and religious reasons. Now, let's dive into the specific details regarding the import of different types of pets.

Can I bring my dog to Israel?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Israel. Israel allows the import of dogs, but they must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate should state that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days but not more than one year prior to entry. Additionally, the dog must be microchipped and the microchip number should be clearly stated on the health certificate.

Can I bring my cat to Israel?

Yes, cats are also allowed into Israel. Similar to dogs, cats must have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate should confirm that the cat has been vaccinated against rabies within the same timeframe as dogs (30 days to one year before entry). Cats must also be microchipped, and the microchip number should be included in the health certificate.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Israel

Israel prohibits the import of certain pets due to ecological and health concerns. These include reptiles, ferrets, and birds (with the exception of certain species of parrots and canaries with proper permits). Additionally, some dog breeds considered aggressive, such as Pit Bull Terriers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers, are not allowed. It's crucial to check the most recent list of prohibited pets before planning your move.

How do I bring my pet to Israel?

To bring your pet to Israel, start by obtaining a health certificate from your veterinarian. The certificate should be issued no more than 10 days before departure and should confirm that your pet is healthy, free of parasites, and properly vaccinated against rabies. Pets must also be microchipped. Once you have the health certificate, submit it to the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture's Veterinary Services for approval. After approval, you'll receive an import permit, which is valid for 30 days. Upon arrival in Israel, pets are inspected by a veterinarian at the airport. If all documents are in order and the pet is healthy, there is typically no quarantine period.

Upon Arriving in Israel

After your pet has safely traveled into Israel, you should obtain a pet license from your local municipality (city hall). This process usually involves providing your pet's health certificate and paying a small fee. Finding a veterinarian is relatively straightforward, with many clinics located in urban areas. As for the local attitude towards pets, while not as widespread as in some Western countries, pet ownership is growing in popularity, especially among the younger generation. Dog parks are not as common as in other countries, but they do exist in major cities. Always respect local customs and regulations regarding pets, such as leash laws and cleaning up after your pet.