UAE law is clear when it comes to abuse of animals

DUBAI // Owning a pet is a relatively new phenomenon in the UAE and the public's understanding of pet ownership can be behind where it needs to be but many vet clinics and welfare groups can offer advice.
UAE Federal Law 16 of 2007 was put in place to protect animals from abuse and negligence. It states that inadequate diet or undernourishment, unsafe transportation, as well as other forms of mistreatment, including scientific experiments, cruelty and sexual abuse, are punishable by law. Animals should receive medical attention when needed and abandonment is also illegal.
Owners of abandoned or neglected animals will receive written instructions about animal welfare and will be required to pledge that negligence will not reoccur.
If the situation continues, the owner will be penalised and held responsible for all expenses, including veterinary bills. The penalty for violating animal rights includes imprisonment with a maximum of a one-year sentence, and a fine of up to Dh20,000.
Dr Zoe Hamilton, from the Vienna Veterinary Clinic, said although the law is clear, enforcement is lacking.
"There is a very good animal welfare law here but it needs to be enforced," she said.
"People go to prison for this kind of abuse in the west but it is still hard to enforce animal welfare laws properly. We are 100 years behind that here in UAE.
"Part of the issue is that it falls on the shoulders of the municipality. They are understaffed. It needs to start with importation of animals to pet stores. They are always underweight and sick. That generates a lot of problems.
"All we can do is speak up when you see any kind of abuse and the police should be the first point of call.
"If you suspect something bad is happening to a neighbour's dog, you can report it to police. It is part of their role to be part of the enforcement."
nwebster@thenational.ae