Credit: Pixabay
On Monday 23 February 2026, the Luxembourg Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Viticulture announced the Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA) had reported that a case of rabies in a puppy was confirmed on 10 February 2026 in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.
According to the ministry, the puppy concerned formed part of a cache of around twenty dogs and cats introduced into the territory of the European Union from Russia. These animals were intended, among other destinations, for neighbouring countries and, at this stage, the importation of one or more of these dogs into Luxembourg cannot be ruled out.
ALVA called on the general public not to import animals whose health status is unknown, or for which import documentation is not in order, in order to avoid compromising the health of citizens and animals in the Grand Duchy.
ALVA noted that among the major risks of animal importation is the introduction of rabies, even though Luxembourg has been rabies-free since 2001. This incurable and fatal virus infects both wild and domestic animals and is transmitted to humans through the saliva of an infected animal. Dogs account for 99% of fatal human rabies cases.
ALVA urged anyone wishing to acquire a dog abroad to exercise the utmost vigilance. The administration strongly recommended only contacting approved breeders or to prioritise adoption from recognised shelters in Luxembourg or within the Greater Region.
If one is considering importing a dog or cat from abroad, the following health requirements must be met:
• identification by microchip;
• health certificate;
• valid vaccination against rabies;
• serological test: for certain third countries, determination of the level of rabies antibodies, certified by an approved laboratory, is required.
The ministry strongly advised anyone intending to adopt or acquire an animal from a third country to seek information from ALVA and reiterated that upon an animal’s arrival at its new home, a visit to a veterinary surgeon is essential for a physical examination, verification of documentation and regularisation (European passport, microchip registration, etc.).
