Being a pet parent is a wish come true for a lot of people in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In Dubai, animal companions offer much-needed warmth and company, especially for expatriates who live away from their families because of work.

But to fully enjoy these benefits, you must learn how to become a responsible pet owner. This means understanding six things every Dubai pet parent must know:

1.   Only adopt non-prohibited breeds.

In the past, wealthy UAE residents kept exotic animals as pets. Then, in 2016, President Sheikh Khalifa made a landmark decision banning private ownership of these creatures permanently.

The Federal Law No. 22 of 2016 implemented stricter regulations on trade, possession, and breeding of such animals.

According to the new law, only wildlife parks, zoos, and research and breeding centres are allowed to keep such unique creatures. Any other private individual or entity is forbidden.

Besides this, some dog breeds are also strictly prohibited in the country, namely:

• American Bully
• American Staffordshire terriers
• Boxer
• Chow Chow
• Doberman Pinscher
• Japanese Tosa
• Perro de Presa Canario
• Rottweilers
• All Pit Bull breeds
• Any wolf-dog hybrids
• All Mastiff breeds

Any crossbreeds of these dogs are also not allowed. If found, any prohibited animal will be confiscated and sent to a shelter for rehoming in other countries.

2.   Provide your pet’s most basic needs.

Once you’ve adopted the right pet for you, the next thing you must remember is to provide their most basic needs: food, exercise, security, and love.

Make sure the new member of your family has enough sustenance to live a healthy life. Many Dubai pet food products – whether store-bought or ordered online – are ensured to give dogs, cats, and other allowed pets the nutrients they need to be healthy.

Of course, you still need to watch their consumption, as pet obesity is not an uncommon issue among domestic animals in Dubai. It also helps to give your animal companion opportunities for exercise, like going for walks.

Also, make sure that your pet remains in a safe and secure environment. Besides living in a pet-friendly home, this also means keeping them away from dangerous chemicals, sharp objects, and even some human food.

Most importantly, your new pet needs your time, attention, and love. While the affection they offer you is unconditional, it’s only right (and much more fulfilling) to return the favour.

3.   Get your pet listed and vaccinated.

Pets in Dubai also need to be registered and vaccinated. In fact, the entire country mandates this for all pet owners in the country.

All dogs are registered and implanted with a microchip. The registration also needs to be renewed annually.

Pets must also get their vaccinations every year, especially the following:

• For dogs: DHLPPI and rabies
• For cats: Flu or enteritis and rabies

Pet owners with unvaccinated or unregistered animal companions will be given a three-day grace period to comply. Failure would result in fines or confiscation of the pet.

4.   Keep dogs on a lead and mask in public.

No dog can roam unaccompanied in public areas in Dubai, so make sure your pet is on a lead and with a pet sitter during walks if you’re not around. Don’t forget to have them wear a mask (or a muzzle for bigger breeds).

Besides keeping your dog in line, a pet lead also gives you a safe and simple method of communication, especially during training. It helps prevent overactive pups from lunging or jumping other animals or people before they are fully trained as well.

Pet Lead

Choose a pet lead made from sturdy but comfortable material, like nylon or leather.

For dogs that tend to chew on their lead, metal chain leads might be a better option.

Also, make sure that the lead is just the right length for your pet’s comfort and freedom of movement while still allowing you to regulate your furry pal's reach. This means you should replace the lead periodically as your pet grows bigger.

Pet Mask

Like leads, you should also choose a pet mask or muzzle that is comfortable and durable. The size matters, so make sure you accurately take your pet’s measurement.

To get the length, measure the space between your dog’s eye down to the tip of their nose. For the circumference, place the measuring tape an inch under the eye and circle around the nose completely.

Pro Tip: To make sure the muzzle fits comfortably, add length to each circumference measurement.

5.   Steer clear of no-pet zones.

Many dog-friendly areas in Dubai have assigned spaces for pet walking, so long as your four-legged pal is on a lead. With that in mind, don’t try to mix things up by bringing your dog in no-pet zones.

The number of pet-friendly areas is also an important consideration when relocating to Dubai with your pet. The good news is that there are many pet-friendly communities in the emirate, including:

• Downtown Dubai
• Dubai Sports City
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
• Arabian Ranches
• Dubai Hills State
• The Lakes
• The Springs
• The Meadows
• Palm Jumeirah
• Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
• Jumeirah Park
• Jumeirah Village Triangle
• Jumeirah Islands

6.   Clean up after your pet.

Another vital aspect of responsible pet ownership is keeping your animal companion clean.

Besides proper hygiene and expert pet grooming in Dubai, you also need to make sure that you clean up after your pet, especially on your walks in public places.

When heading outdoors, maximise the use of doggie waste bins that are conveniently placed in almost all pet walking areas. Dispose of the waste responsibly to avoid penalties.

Bring Home Your Furry Baby or Best Friend

Pets are often regarded as family or friends. If you’re about to bring home your new furry baby or four-legged friend while living in Dubai, make sure you fully understand what it means to be a responsible pet owner with the help of this article.