Recently we’ve come across posts on social media about off-leash dog(s) attacking ones on the leash and we wanted to highlight some dos and don’ts for UAE doggies. No matter how trained or friendly your dog might be, as a responsible human of a dog please follow the community and municipality rules. Otherwise, you might cause harm to other dogs while also harming yours in the process.
Keep your dog on the leash in public places
All dogs must be kept on the leash in public and community spaces. This is mandatory unless explicitly mentioned otherwise.
A few years ago, our dog (medium sized) on the leash was charged upon by a pack of three huskies who were off the leash with not a sight of their human in the vicinity. While trying to separate our dog from the huskies, my husband sustained a few scratches (not bites). Last year our dog (on the leash) was again charged upon by a husky (off the leash) in the neighbourhood. Thankfully both times no one sustained big injuries.
It’s probably worth mentioning that our dog isn’t friendly with all dogs, especially with male dogs bigger than him. On our walks, we always keep him on the leash. Unfortunately, incidents of dogs being off the leash are rising in certain communities in the UAE. We’ve been hearing about such incidents from fellow dog humans. Despite being aware of the dos and don’ts many humans don’t pay heed. To all these humans, no matter how trained or friendly your dog is, keeping them on the leash is mandatory.
Don’t take your dog to places where they are not allowed
There are several places across the UAE where your dogs will be welcome. If you are keen to socialise or do activities with your dog in tow, select a dog-friendly location. There are also large enough sandy patches in many areas where your dog (if s/he is trained and has a good recall) could run free. Although, a dog off the leash is technically not allowed in public places.
Importantly, don’t take your dog to places where they are not allowed, especially certain parks and beaches. It might be a cause of concern for others in these public areas. Not to mention, you can be fined for flouting rules. Also, while visiting a dog-friendly place or walking in the neighbourhood, please clean up after your dogs to keep the area hygienic.
Register and vaccinate your dog annually
Finally, when living in the UAE, it is mandatory to vaccinate and register your dog annually. It’s vital to keep the records up to date. While charges for vaccination and registration tend to vary, Dubai Municipality offers the most cost-effective option (more details here).
Now that you know the dos and don’ts for UAE doggies, as responsible humans of dogs please be careful about following these rules. Please don’t knowingly flout rules and put your and other dogs in harm’s way.
