Subsidizing the treatment of retired service dogs approved in the first reading

According to the bill, owners of dogs who served in law enforcement agencies will be entitled to annual state compensation for all veterinary expenses, including medications and specialized medical insurance.

Payments apply to treatment, examinations and veterinary procedures related to any disability, illness, injury or injury sustained by an animal during combat operations or aggravated by service.

During discussions in the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, the compensation ceiling was temporarily set at NIS 5,000 per year. At the same time, it was agreed that before voting in the second and third readings, this issue would be further discussed with the Ministry of Finance.

Every year, about 90 dogs retire from the canine units of the IDF, police, border guards and Shabas. At the moment, the entire burden of their maintenance fell on the shoulders of the adoptive parents.