A rise in rabies cases across Israel and in the Jerusalem area is raising concern among pet owners and residents. Jerusalem’s municipal veterinary service is calling on dog owners to verify that their pets’ rabies vaccinations are still valid and that their ownership licenses have been renewed as required.
Rabies is a fatal disease that can pass from animals to humans, mainly through bites or contact with the saliva of an infected animal. Despite its severity, the risk can be significantly reduced through regular vaccination, proper licensing and close supervision of dogs in public spaces.
In Jerusalem, where residential neighborhoods are located near open areas and places where wild or stray animals may appear, adherence to basic prevention measures is especially important.
Why should the vaccination be checked even when the dog appears healthy?
An animal exposed to rabies may not immediately show visible symptoms. Owners should therefore not rely solely on appearance or behavior. A valid vaccination protects the dog and reduces the risk of the disease spreading to people or other animals.
Jerusalem officials stress that prevention begins with simple measures: vaccinating on time, renewing the license and keeping the dog under control.
Dr. Assaf Brill, director of Jerusalem’s municipal veterinary service, said: “The most effective way to deal with rabies is prevention. We call on all dog owners to check today that the rabies vaccination is valid, that the license has been renewed as required and that dogs are kept in accordance with the law. This is a simple action that protects the family, the animals and the public as a whole.”
What rules apply in Jerusalem’s public spaces?
The municipal veterinary service reminds owners that dogs must be kept on a leash in public spaces, in accordance with the law. Dogs classified by law as dangerous must also wear a muzzle.
Beyond the legal requirement, a leash helps prevent uncontrolled contact with stray animals or wildlife. Such encounters can occur in parks, near the edges of residential neighborhoods and in open areas around Jerusalem.
The municipal veterinary service will continue inspections and enforcement throughout the city. Owners who fail to meet legal requirements may face fines and additional enforcement measures.
How can owners check the vaccination and license?
Dog owners who are unsure about the date of the last vaccination or the validity of the license can contact Jerusalem’s municipal veterinary service directly.
Inquiries can be made by WhatsApp messages only at 050-3121827, or by email at veterinary@jerusalem.muni.il.
In the event of a bite, scratch or suspected contact with the saliva of an animal, people should not wait for symptoms to appear. The affected area should be washed thoroughly and medical advice should be sought as soon as possible.
