Qatar growing more open to pet adoption as animal welfare awareness increases

Doha, Qatar: In recent years, Qatar has witnessed a significant transformation in people’s approach to pet adoption, reflecting broader societal changes and increasing awareness of animal welfare issues.

This transformation is evident through the rise in adoption events, the establishment of animal rescue organizations, and the enhancement of public education initiatives, all contributing to a more compassionate stance towards animals.

Central to this evolving landscape has been the collaborative efforts of local and international animal welfare groups.

Organizations like the Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) and Paws Rescue Qatar have played a pivotal role in advocating for and promoting pet adoption.

These groups rescue abandoned and stray animals, provide necessary medical attention, and facilitate the adoption process. Their endeavors have played a crucial role in reshaping public attitudes and encouraging more individuals to consider adopting pets.

Adoption events in Qatar have become increasingly popular, offering a platform for potential pet owners to connect with animals in need of loving homes.

These events are frequently organized in partnership with shopping malls, community centers, and parks, ensuring accessibility to a wide audience. The use of social media campaigns and collaborations with local influencers has also been instrumental in promoting the cause of pet adoption.

Efforts to educate the public about the advantages of pet adoption, the responsibilities of pet ownership, and the challenges faced by stray animals have led to greater awareness and empathy within the community. Schools and youth groups are actively involved in promoting a culture of respect and compassion towards animals from an early age.

The government has demonstrated its support for these initiatives through policy changes and financial backing for animal welfare projects. Measures to enhance animal protection from cruelty and neglect have been reinforced, and there are ongoing discussions about establishing more comprehensive legal frameworks for animal rights.

Joseph Jeffin

Speaking to The Peninsula recently, Joseph Jeffin, founder of My Pet World app, Qatar’s first innovative multi-lingual all-in-one pet app, said that he is thrilled to witness the positive trends in pet parenting in Qatar.

“When we did a trial run of our business idea two years ago, we had a very limited number of community members. Today, My Pet World community has grown significantly with 5k+ app users, with 100+ passionate pet parents meetup monthly in Qatar to share experiences and insights.

The response to My Pet World has been overwhelmingly welcoming, with more people creating pet profiles to manage their pets’ data, shop for products, and book services through our centralized platform. We believe we are trendsetters in this vibrant and growing pet care community in Qatar,” he said.

In recent times, there has been a notable shift in Qatar’s approach to pet adoption, reflecting broader societal changes and an increased awareness of animal welfare issues. Qatar’s significant expatriate population has played a role in changing perspectives on pet adoption.

A number of expatriates originate from places where owning and adopting pets is customary, and they carry these beliefs with them. The temporary nature of the expatriate community has, interestingly, emphasized the necessity of providing secure and caring environments for pets, as numerous animals are deserted when their owners depart the country.

According to Dr. Tawakalitu Abdulsalam – Akanji (DVM, rcsi), a veterinarian who has been practicing in Qatar for the past few years, the bond between humans and their pets in Qatar is truly remarkable, and it’s a joy to be part of a community that values the well-being of its furry companions so highly.

Dr. Tawakalitu Abdulsalam – Akanji (DVM, rcsi)

“In Qatar, the love for pets, particularly dogs and cats, is evident in the lengths to which owners go to ensure their animals lead happy, healthy lives. From regular check-ups to specialized treatments, the commitment to providing the best possible care is unwavering. It is not uncommon for pet owners to seek out advanced medical procedures and holistic treatments, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of and concern for their pets’ health,” she said.

“One of the most striking aspects of pet ownership in Qatar is the emphasis on preventative care. Pet owners are proactive in scheduling routine vaccinations, dental cleanings, and wellness exams. They understand that these measures are crucial in preventing diseases and extending the lives of their beloved pets. This proactive approach reflects a broader trend in Qatar towards health and wellness, extending naturally to the care of pets.”

She added that the rise of pet-related services in Qatar, such as grooming, training, and pet-sitting, highlights the holistic approach that pet owners are taking.

“These services not only cater to the physical needs of pets but also contribute to their emotional and behavioral development. It is heartening to see such a comprehensive approach to pet care becoming the norm,” she told The Peninsula.

Echoing the same sentiment, Ms. Sara, one of the pet parent who recently joined recent My Pet World meetup in Qatar, said, “Having lived in Qatar for over 20 years, I am delighted to see the positive trends in pet parenting. Connecting with other pet parents has provided a sense of community and support that makes me feel relaxed and confident as a pet owner. I love this new trend and am grateful to all the stakeholders involved in fostering this vibrant pet care community.”

With countless heartwarming narratives depict rescued animals finding homes with caring individuals, often shared on social media to increase awareness, the dedication to pet care in Qatar is unquestionably a wonderful illustration of the deep relationships between pets and their owners in the country, and the development is poised for even further growth.