Following missile attacks in parts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), veterinary clinics in Dubai have reported a significant increase in abandoned dogs and cats on the streets since the conflict began. The nation currently has over two million pets.

Some pet owners have even inquired about euthanizing healthy animals to circumvent relocation costs. Consequently, rescue organizations such as K9 Friends Dubai and The Barking Lot are reporting severe overcrowding and a lack of available space.

Many dogs abandoned on the streets of Dubai as residents fled the war-torn area, early March. Photo: Telegraph

Aditi Gouri, owner of The Barking Lot pet boarding service, confirmed that rescue centers are at capacity but are diligently working to assist the sudden influx of animals. Volunteers have noted that the number of abandoned pets has risen by hundreds compared to typical figures.

A volunteer tallied approximately 200 social media posts on WhatsApp and Facebook groups detailing dogs chained to lampposts or left on the streets. Tragically, many animals were discovered deceased in the desert, abandoned at the border by owners attempting an overland journey to Oman.

In Al Ain, a resident discovered a mother cat and four kittens in a styrofoam box, accompanied by a note explaining the owner's inability to take them during evacuation. The feline family is now safe and awaiting adoption. Similarly, in Al-Nahda, a dog found chained to a lamppost since the conflict's onset was recently rescued by locals after its owner did not return.

"There is no justifiable reason for abandoning pets at the border or on the streets in a wealthy nation like the UAE," emphasized Louise Hastie, Chief Executive Officer of the War Paws rescue organization.

Hastie, currently stranded in Iraq, will care for the animals she rescued "until the conflict ends". Photo: Telegraph

Experts attribute the crisis primarily to exorbitant costs and complex procedures. Pawsome Pets, a pet relocation company, observed a 20-fold increase in inquiries for pet transport within three days. To exit the country, pets need microchipping, rabies vaccinations, passports, and import permits, collectively costing thousands of USD.

Approximately 14,000 British citizens in the UAE have contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for repatriation. Despite the availability of evacuation flights, most have opted to leave their pets behind due to prohibitive costs or the inability to quickly fulfill strict quarantine documentation. Social media users have vehemently criticized expatriates for treating pets as disposable ornaments during times of crisis.

To address the increasing number of strays, Dubai authorities have installed 12 AI-powered smart feeding stations, known as Ehsan Stations, in local parks. These devices automatically detect animals and dispense food, providing a vital lifeline for abandoned dogs and cats during this challenging time.

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated since late February, following a US-Israel strike campaign against Iran. Reuters reports that the UAE has been significantly impacted by a series of drone and missile attacks targeting airports and oil and gas facilities, resulting in a partial closure of its airspace.

Minh Phuong (According to Telegraph, Indiatimes)