Sharjah warns against dumping pets after abandonment cases at animal market

Sharjah Municipality has warned residents against abandoning pets, following several cases reported near the emirate’s Birds and Pet Market.

The authority said abandoning animals is a violation of applicable regulations and goes against the principles of compassion and responsible pet ownership. Residents have been urged to ensure their pets receive proper care and are not left in unsafe or unsuitable conditions.

The municipality also shared footage showing a boy leaving an animal inside a cage outside one of the shops at the Birds and Pet Market.

Pet Owners Can Contact Sharjah Shelter

Residents who are no longer able to care for their animals have been advised to contact the Sharjah Municipality call centre on 993 to enquire about surrender options.

However, the municipality clarified that animals can only be accepted depending on the available capacity at the Sharjah Cats and Dogs Shelter. Requests are assessed based on space availability, and applicants are contacted when a place becomes available to determine whether the animal can be admitted.

Responsible Pet Ownership Is Encouraged

Sharjah Municipality stressed that responsible pet ownership includes providing animals with:

• Proper healthcare

• Adequate food and nutrition

• A safe and suitable environment

• Regular care and attention

• Compliance with relevant laws and regulations

The authority encouraged owners to seek appropriate assistance rather than abandoning pets in public places.

Dubai Expands Shelter Facilities

Efforts to protect abandoned animals are also continuing in Dubai. Dubai Municipality built an integrated shelter at the Birds and Pets Market in Warsan to provide rescued animals with a safe place to recover and receive veterinary care.

The facility also aims to help cats find suitable families and permanent homes.

Dubai Municipality operates another shelter in Al Khawaneej, which accommodates dogs and supports their adoption. These facilities form part of wider efforts to promote animal welfare and responsible pet ownership across the UAE.

Abu Dhabi Introduces Pet Registration Rules

Abu Dhabi has also strengthened its animal welfare measures. Recent regulations require owners to register microchipped cats and dogs through the TAMM platform.

The registration system is designed to help authorities maintain accurate pet records, identify animals and their owners, reduce the stray animal population and improve animal welfare. Owners who fail to comply with the requirements may face fines.

In 2023, authorities also investigated reports of cats being abandoned in the desert after videos of the incident circulated on social media.

UAE Laws Protect Animals From Abuse

UAE legislation includes several provisions aimed at preventing animal abuse, neglect and abandonment.

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 31 of 2021, penalties apply to certain offences involving animals:

Article 466: Provides penalties for deliberately killing or seriously injuring certain animals, as well as leaving stray animals in circumstances that endanger people.

Article 471: Provides for imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to Dh10,000 for deliberately killing or poisoning certain domesticated or tamed animals.

Article 472: Provides for a fine of up to Dh5,000 for harassing, torturing or mistreating domesticated or tamed animals, or failing to care for animals when legally responsible for them.

Article 473: Provides fines for causing injuries to animals belonging to another person through negligence, with higher penalties where the animal dies.

Another federal law, Federal Law No. 16 of 2007 concerning the Protection of Animals from Abuse and Neglect, also regulates the use of animals for scientific experiments. Unauthorised use can result in penalties ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh200,000, along with possible imprisonment.

Authorities have also previously warned that selling ill or injured animals can lead to fines of up to Dh200,000.

Residents Urged to Choose Responsible Solutions

With animal shelters and adoption facilities working to support abandoned pets, authorities are urging owners to seek official assistance when they can no longer care for an animal.

Instead of leaving pets in markets, streets or other unsafe locations, residents should contact the relevant authorities or shelters to explore legal surrender and adoption options.