Brief
UAE pet adoption: long‑term commitment highlighted by veterinarians
Experts advise UAE residents to plan carefully before adopting, citing the long‑term responsibility of pet ownership.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Veterinarians in the UAE have warned that adopting a pet is a long‑term commitment, urging prospective owners to consider their lifestyle, finances and the animal’s needs before making a decision.
Dr Sarah Ramsey, a veterinarian, said the biggest mistake people make is underestimating the duration of responsibility, describing adoption as a “20‑year promise” rather than a fleeting emotional choice. She added that owners should weigh working hours, activity level, travel, children, existing pets, accommodation size and the climate before choosing a pet.
Dr Susan Atkins, a general practice vet at Aura Veterinary Center in Dubai, echoed Ramsey’s advice, stressing that the animal’s temperament and maturity are as important as breed. She recommended looking for calm, confident animals and considering adult pets whose personalities are already established.
Both veterinarians highlighted that many owners forget to budget for ongoing costs such as dental care, parasite prevention, grooming, boarding and unexpected illnesses. They also warned that a puppy or kitten may not be easier to care for than an older animal.
Key facts
- Adoption is described as a 20‑year commitment (gulfnews.com)
- Veterinarians advise considering working hours, activity level, travel, children, existing pets, accommodation size and climate (gulfnews.com)
- Owners often overlook costs for dental care, parasite prevention, grooming, boarding and emergencies (gulfnews.com)
- Adult pets may be more suitable for families with young children or multiple pets (gulfnews.com)
Background
The article follows a recent Felo News guide on adopting pets from Dubai Municipality, which outlines the shelter process and requirements for responsible ownership.
Why it matters
The advice aims to reduce pet abandonment and improve animal welfare in the UAE.
What happens next
Prospective adopters should consult local veterinarians and shelters to assess suitability before proceeding.
Sources
- [1] gulfnews.com — originally reported as “Adopting a pet in the UAE? It's a 20-year promise: What to plan for, from costs to moving abroad”
