Switzerland’s first rabies quarantine centre in Berg TG

After years of preparatory work, a project has become reality in eastern Switzerland that means a real chance of survival for many animals: In Berg in the canton of Thurgau, the first professional rabies quarantine centre in Switzerland is being built. Up to 48 dogs are to find species-appropriate and safe accommodation there in future if they have been confiscated by authorities due to suspected rabies. TVO Online. has contributed an article on this.

Why this centre is urgently needed

In Switzerland, strict rules apply to prevent the introduction of rabies, a fatal viral infection that in humans and animals almost always leads to death once symptoms appear.

Every year, around 80 animals are euthanised because an official suspicion of rabies has been raised. In addition, there are around 400 official orders in which animals are confiscated and must either be quarantined or returned to their country of origin. If returned, the fate of these animals ends with death in almost all cases, whether due to the return journey itself or due to euthanasia measures in the country of origin.

The core of the problem: Switzerland previously had no single professional quarantine facility where animals could be cared for, socialised and observed professionally. Without such structures, authorities often decide on euthanasia or home quarantine for safety or cost reasons, but home quarantine is often insufficiently controlled and does not optimally serve either animal welfare or the protection of the population.

How the quarantine station works

The concept for the station was developed jointly with experts from veterinary medicine, animal welfare and veterinary authorities, on a scientific basis that takes animal welfare and safety equally seriously. Animals admitted to quarantine remain in safe, structured rooms for the legally prescribed observation period (typically 120 days). At the same time, care is taken to ensure that social contact, developmental support and species-appropriate keeping are possible, so that puppies in particular do not suffer irreversible behavioural or developmental disorders.

A key point: The staff are vaccinated against rabies and specially trained to recognise signs of illness early and to ensure both animal welfare and safety for humans and the environment.

What the project achieves

The project solves two concrete problems. It reduces the suffering of animals that are currently killed en masse due to legal requirements, even though the suspicion of rabies is later never confirmed in many cases. And it creates a reliable alternative for authorities, who today often have to choose between inadequate home quarantine or euthanasia.

The fact that the concept is based on scientific grounds and is practically implementable makes it a possible model for all of Switzerland.

The initiators

Dr med vet Lisa Goldinger, president of the supporting association and a vet with many years of experience, has been the driving force behind the project. Together with experts from veterinary medicine and animal welfare, she has tackled a problem that was long considered almost unsolvable in Switzerland.

Support

The project relies on donations and supporters to finance the construction and operation of the station. Further information can be found at https://tollwut.ch/