The Rabies Ordinance, 1934
What do the regulations include?
The Rabies Ordinance, 1934, is one of the important pieces of legislation in Israel intended to protect public health and animals from rabies. This ordinance requires all dog owners to vaccinate their dog against rabies once a year and to keep a valid record of the vaccination. In addition, the ordinance regulates the procedures in the event of a dog bite or suspected rabies infection, including the obligation to report to the Ministry of Health and to place the dog in quarantine under controlled conditions. The quarantine requirement also applies in the case of a dog bitten by another animal suspected of being infected with rabies.
Why is it important to know the regulations?
Rabies is a fatal disease for both animals and humans, and the best protection against it is preventive vaccination. Failure to meet the requirements of the ordinance endangers not only your dog, but also the general public and the animals in the environment. Beyond that, failing to vaccinate the dog may lead to heavy fines and even confiscation of the dog in the event of a rabies suspicion. The ordinance is also intended to provide a rapid and effective response in emergency situations, such as cases of bites or suspected infection, in order to prevent the spread of the disease and ensure prompt treatment for all potential victims.
What must you do to meet the regulations' requirements?
You must ensure that your dog is vaccinated against rabies every year and that you hold valid documentation of the vaccination, issued by the veterinarian. In the event of a bite or suspected contact with an infected animal, you must report immediately to the Ministry of Health or the veterinary department at the local authority and act according to the guidelines. If your dog is required to be quarantined, be sure to fully comply with the quarantine conditions as set out by law. Adhering to the requirements of the ordinance will ensure the health of your dog, protect the public, and spare you distress or legal sanctions.
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