Dubai is experiencing a sharp increase in the number of abandoned pets. According to charitable organizations, thousands of cats and dogs have been left on the streets after their expat owners began to urgently leave the region amid the war with Iran.
Shelters and volunteer organizations report being overwhelmed. Rescuers are finding animals with microchips. This indicates that they previously had owners.
"Some of them were chipped and clearly loved, but their families just left. It’s heartbreaking for the rescuers and terrifying for the animals," said Hannah Maynds, head of a local charity.
The volunteer organization Dubai Street Kitties also reported a critical situation in shelters: "We have reached our limit. Every room is occupied, every space is filled, and calls keep coming in - injured cats, abandoned cats, kittens left to survive alone."
The Dubai Municipality has started installing 12 automated feeding stations throughout the city using artificial intelligence technology to help homeless animals.
In the UAE, abandoning pets is illegal. Heavy fines are imposed for such violations.
