For most of us, a dog is considered an important part of the family. Therefore, most families that are planning to relocate abroad, don’t think about leaving their beloved dog behind. That said, it is important to note that flying with a dog internationally isn’t so simple. This becomes more complicated when flying a dangerous dog.
Are you planning to fly with a Pitbull or another dangerous dog breed? Unfortunately, traveling to a foreign country with a “restricted” and/or a dangerous dog breed could be very complicated. There are quite a few countries around the world that have banned certain breeds. Others may not have placed a ban, but may require you to obey more regulations.
It is very important to note that flying a dangerous dog internationally without the necessary documents is illegal and the consequences are very serious (in Israel, for example, you may even go to jail).
Dogs have long been known as man’s best friend. They are loyal, friendly, provide comfort, assistance and much more. Unfortunately, some dogs might also be dangerous.
Any dog can be dangerous. Even small dogs can bite.
However, there are certain breeds that have been identified as dangerous because they are characterized with unique physical features (such as a powerful jaw structure) and certain types of behaviors.
Below is a list of common dangerous dog breeds around the world:
There are many countries around the world that ban certain dog breeds from entering into their territories.
Here are some examples:
There are many more countries around the world that have banned certain dog breeds. We therefore recommend you check with the authorities in the destination country before moving forward with your pet’s relocation.
Not only countries have banned or restricted dangerous dog breeds. Many airlines did so as well.
After figuring out the exact process and the needed documents, you will have to work hard on finding an airline that will accept your dog. Nowadays, most airlines won’t fly a dangerous/aggressive dog.
Here are some examples:
There are many other airlines that have stopped flying Pitbulls and other dangerous dog breeds. We therefore recommend you check with the airline before booking your tickets.
In Israel, the following breeds have been defined as dangerous:
Can I import a dangerous dog breed into Israel? In general, the answer is “yes”. In order to do so, you will need to comply with the Israeli regulations (Import and Possession of Dangerous Dog, 2004) and with various restrictions.
One of the many things that you will need is to get an import permit/license. To obtain this permit, the following must occur:
In addition to the conditions stated above, if you want to bring a dangerous dog into Israel, you will also have to obey all the veterinary requirements needed for importing a regular dog breed into Israel.
In 2017, the pet import regulations of Israel changed. The Ministry of Agriculture placed a new rule which states that a dog (or cat) that requires an import permit, will need to fly with an air waybill (AWB).
As previously stated, bringing a dangerous dog breed into Israel will require an import permit. Therefore, pet owners of dangerous dog breeds can only bring their dogs into Israel as manifest cargo (with an air waybill).
In order words, it isn’t possible to bring a dangerous dog into Israel as excess luggage and/or in-cabin (as a service or an emotional support dog).
Here’s a common question: Is the process of bringing a dangerous breed into Israel any different if the dog was born or was previously in Israel? The answer is “no”, a dangerous dog breed can only enter Israel as manifest cargo.
Following the changes that were introduced in 2017, as of today, flying with a Pitbull (or any other dangerous/restricted dog breed) to Israel is very expensive. It will easily cost you over $1,500 USD (no matter where you are coming from).
Why is it so expensive? It’s mostly due to the fact that sending a dog as cargo, with an AWB, costs more than sending a dog as excess luggage.
Once a dog is sent as cargo, there are additional costs, such as a fee for issuing the air waybill, customs clearance at the destination airport and much more.
In conclusion, if you plan to bring a Pitbull (or another dangerous/restricted dog breed) to Israel, please keep in mind that it will cost you a lot of money!
Flying a dangerous dog into Israel without complying with all the regulations, that were set by the Israeli authorities, could be get the pet owner imprisoned for a period of up to 6 months!
What about the dog? The veterinary services will charge a hefty fine, send the dog back to his country of origin or even put the dog to sleep (this rarely happens). The owner, of course, will be charged with all the financial expenses involved.
In recent years, many families around the world have been relocating with their pets. In order to increase the chances for a smooth move, there are many things that one needs to plan in advance in order to prevent unnecessary stress, complications and expenses.
If you are an owner of a dangerous dog, you will need to take extra precautions before your flight.
Our expert team can help you with the necessary documents, build for you a special pet flight crate (if requested by your airline), find for you an airline that will fly your dog, save you time, headache and, of course, money, all in accordance with the regulations.
We know that there will be tasks that you will manage to do on your own, but there will be other tasks that will require help. Do yourself and your dog a big favor and let the experts help you with your dog’s relocation.
Using a pet relocation company will most likely cost you more then doing it on your own, but because a dog is so much more than a pet, we advise you not to take unnecessary risks, especially when you own a dangerous/restricted dog breed.
We would love to hear from you!
