Animal Import Rules: How to Bring a Pet from Abroad
Reading time: 6 minutes
- Knowledge of requirements and procedures for importing animals from abroad
- Preparation of necessary documents and certificates
- Choosing suitable transport and an airline
- Helping your pet adapt to a new environment
- Avoiding common mistakes when transporting animals
Article Contents:
- Key Requirements and Document Preparation
- Choosing Transport and an Airline
- Helping Your Pet Adapt to a New Environment
- What to Avoid: Common Mistakes
- Useful Resources and Next Steps
Key Requirements and Document Preparation
The main regulatory body is the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. For cats and dogs, the following are mandatory: an international standard ISO 11784/11785 microchip, a valid rabies vaccination (administered no earlier than 12 months and no later than 21 days before entry), and an official veterinary certificate from the country of export, endorsed by a state veterinarian. The certificate must be issued shortly before the trip. Some countries have additional quarantine requirements. All current information should be verified on the ministry’s official website.
Choosing Transport and an Airline
Transporting an animal requires careful planning. Not all airlines allow pets in the cabin or cargo hold, and their rules and fees vary greatly. It is necessary to book a spot for the animal in advance, clarify the dimensions of the carrier, and the requirements for its construction. When flying in the cargo hold, it is important to consider seasonal temperature restrictions. Upon arrival, if you need taxi or transportation services for your pet, you can easily find a suitable option through our listings.
Helping Your Pet Adapt to a New Environment
After successfully crossing the border, an important adaptation phase begins. Prepare everything you need in advance: a bed, bowls, familiar food (it’s better to bring extra), and toys. In the first few days, provide your pet with peace and quiet, allowing it to get used to the new space. Register the contact details associated with the microchip in the Israeli database. Find the nearest veterinary clinic for a routine check-up. If you need special items during the adaptation process, such as a crate or a travel carrier, you can purchase them affordably in the second-hand section.
What to Avoid: Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is trying to improvise and ignore official rules. Don’t rely on luck: the absence of a required vaccination or certificate will lead to your pet being held in quarantine or deported. Do not use sedatives for animals without a direct prescription from a veterinarian, especially before a flight—this can be dangerous for their health. Do not leave preparations until the last minute. Start the process at least several months before the planned moving date.
Useful Resources and Next Steps
In addition to the Ministry of Agriculture’s website, useful information can be found on airline websites and the websites of professional animal transport companies. If you are moving with your pet for permanent residence and need to rent or buy housing, current offers are always available in the real estate section. Remember, thorough preparation is an act of care and responsibility for the one who depends on you.
Importing a pet to Israel is a clearly regulated process, the success of which depends on attention to detail and following instructions. From microchipping to adaptation in a new home, every stage is important for the health and comfort of your animal. Proper preparation will save you from unnecessary hassle and financial losses. And remember, on our free classifieds platform, you can always find the necessary services, goods, or assistance, and your listing will instantly become available in the four most common languages in the country: Hebrew, English, Russian, and Arabic. This ensures maximum response and effectiveness, wherever you are headed—to Tel Aviv, Haifa, Jerusalem, or Eilat.