If you’re moving from the United States to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or elsewhere in the United Arab Emirates, you’ll find your new home to be very different – visually and culturally. If you’re moving with your dog, things may be very different for them, too. For one thing, the UAE has strict rules about importing pets. One thing you can count on, though – there will be plenty of sources for dog treats.
Very different and yet not so different
The Emirates are very cosmopolitan – home to large numbers of expats from around the world. You’ll meet many home-grown and imported dog lovers. So many, in fact, that pet food and dog treats are a growth industry in the UAE. Economic forecasters say pet owners are demanding more natural and organic foods, especially those without corn and gluten. No matter how picky your dog, they'll be right at home.
Furthermore, shopping is easy because the UAE has multiple supermarkets well-stocked with premium brands of dog supplies. Stores such as Geant, Park ’n Shop, Spinneys, and Choithrams carry not only canned and dry dog foods but those all-important dog treats, plus pup-specific accessories. Just like you’re used to.
But it gets even better in the UAE. Too busy to shop? DubaiPetFood.com will deliver your dog's goodies right to your door – seven days a week, to any of the seven Emirates. And they are not alone. Go online, and you’ll find a plethora of shopping opportunities to score everything you or your dog could possibly want.
When your dog needs to visit the vet – or the grooming salon, or doggie day care – those familiar resources are readily available as well.
It’s a dog’s life in the UAE
You can even take your dog to any number of dog-friendly restaurants in Dubai. Before you go anywhere in public with your dog, however, learn the local rules of pet ownership. Your dog must be licensed and leashed, and of course you’re expected to pick up after them. Cities and even specific neighborhoods in the UAE often restrict where your dog can go, whether walking down the street with you or heading out for a romp.
Be aware that in the Middle East (as in other parts of the world), dogs are considered unclean. So not everyone will be excited to meet or pet your dog.
The best treat of all? Keeping cool
Chances are good you’ll be living in a high-rise apartment in the UAE. But your dog needs exercise, and that means they'll have to go outdoors on a regular basis. What’s the big deal? It gets very hot in the UAE, especially between June and September. Temperatures are routinely in the 40s and sometimes as high as 50o C. That’s about 122 o F. At these temperatures, your dog can suffer heat stroke, which can be deadly.
So treat them to extra care in the summer:
- Walk dogs early in the morning or after sundown. It will still be warm, but not quite as hot.
- Remember that dogs don't wear shoes to protect their feet like humans do, so test the ground to see if it’s too hot. Experts recommend laying the back of your hand on the sidewalk, sand, etc. – if you can’t hold it there for more than 15 seconds, then it’s too dangerous for your dog. Consider buying them some protective booties, much like you would use back home when it rains or snows.
- Take a bottle of water on your walks, and a foldable water dish. Give your dog plenty of opportunities to drink, and splash them with the water to help keep them cooler. Remember, dogs can’t sweat and panting only provides so much relief.
- Walk near the beach, so they can take a refreshing dip.
- Watch carefully for signs of discomfort. If they slow down and want to go home, follow their lead. If your dog is panting excessively, starts to drool, or their eyes look bloodshot, they are becoming dehydrated. That can lead to heat stroke.
And keep in mind something you already know, because it’s even more important in the sunny, hot Emirates: never, ever, leave your dog in the car. Not even for a few minutes. If need be, leave them home where it’s air-conditioned while you go out to stock up on dog treats. Then, reward them lavishly when you return.
Starwood Animal Transport has rebranded to Starwood Pet Travel. We are still the same great company with the best team, just now with a slightly different name.