Registering your dog and vaccinating against rabies are legal obligations under the Rabies Prevention Act.
🐾Dog Registration
When you start keeping a dog or move to a new residence, you must notify your local city or town office.
Please note that most municipalities in Okinawa Prefecture do not participate in the special microchip registration system, so a separate registration is required. ex: Registration fee in Okinawa city is 3,000 yen for each dog.
🐾It’s Mandatory
- If you acquire a new dog, register it within 30 days.
- For puppies, register within 30 days after they reach 91 days of age.
- If you change your address or if your dog passes away, report it within 30 days.
🐾Rabies Vaccination
Dog owners are legally required to have their dogs vaccinated against rabies every year between April and June.
If you miss the designated period, make sure to get the vaccination as soon as possible! 3,400 yen for rabies shot group vaccination.
[Dog Registration] [Rabies Vaccination] [Wearing License and Vaccination Tags]
These are legal obligations under Articles 4 and 5 of the Rabies Prevention Act for all dog owners (including those responsible for managing dogs). Violations may result in a fine of up to 200,000 yen.
In addition, dogs not wearing a valid vaccination tag for the current year may be subject to impoundment.
🐾Wearing License and Vaccination Tags
Please make sure your dog is wearing both the registration tag and the current year’s rabies vaccination tag (metal tag) at all times.
If you lose a tag or if there is a change of address or ownership, report it to your local municipal office.
🐾If You are Bitten by a Dog or your Dog Bite somebody in Okinawa
Report All Dog Bite Incidents Promptly
Whether you’ve been bitten by a dog, or your own dog accidentally bites someone, it’s important to report the incident to your local animal authorities.
In Okinawa, a government-appointed veterinarian (rabies prevention officer) will conduct a health check on the dog involved to help prevent the spread of rabies and other potential health concerns.
Who to Contact:
- Okinawa Animal Protection and Control Center
- If you are in Miyako or Yaeyama, contact your local health center
- If you are in Naha City, contact the Environmental Health Division at Naha City Hall
Why Reporting Matters:
- Rabies is rare in Japan but taken very seriously as a public health risk
- Prompt veterinary checks protect both humans and animals
- Reporting is required regardless of the severity of the bite
If you’re unsure what to do, don’t hesitate to contact your local city hall or health center — they will guide you through the process.
🐾 If Your Dog Goes Missing in Okinawa
Act Quickly to Reunite and Protect Your Pet
If your dog goes missing — even just for a short time — please take action immediately.
According to Japan’s Rabies Prevention Law, dogs found wandering without a tag or rabies vaccination tag can be picked up and taken into custody. Your dog might be held by your local city office or the Okinawa Prefectural Animal Protection and Control Center.
Important: There’s a Time Limit
- Once taken in, dogs are typically held for only 5 days.
- If not claimed during this period, they may be subject to euthanasia or other official procedures.
That’s why it’s very important to contact the center immediately if your dog goes missing.
Losing a pet is really heartbreaking, but quick action can help bring your fuzzy friend home safely.
If you need help with Japanese, many city offices or animal centers are used to working with non-Japanese residents — don’t hesitate to reach out.
Our company also provides interpreting services. If you’re unsure about any procedures or need assistance in Japanese, please don’t hesitate to contact us via our website’s contact form.
🐾Contact Information
Okinawa Prefecture Pharmaceutical and Sanitation Division: 098-866-2055
Rabies Control Department, Local City/Town Offices
