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Pet Safety Guide

How to keep your dogs & cats safe in the UAE

The UAE’s pet community is growing! With increasing pet-friendly spaces, advanced veterinary care, and more safety conscious pet parents, the region’s extreme weather conditions, bustling city life, and unique environmental factors pose challenges for pet safety. Whether you’re a long-time pet parent or a new cat or dog owner in Dubai, ensuring your furry friend’s safety should be a top priority.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover essential pet safety tips, common hazards to avoid, and how to use pet safety apps like Where My Paws At to protect your beloved pet.

Protect Your Pet From Extreme Heat

Why Heat Safety is Crucial for Pets in the UAE

With temperatures soaring above 40°C in the summer months, heat exhaustion and dehydration are serious risks for pets in the UAE. Dogs and cats can suffer from heatstroke, burnt paws, and dehydration if not properly cared for.

Heat Safety Tips for Cats & Dogs:

 

  • Never leave your pet in a parked car – Even with the windows down, temperatures can skyrocket within minutes.
  • Keep pets hydrated – Always provide fresh, cool water, and consider adding pet-safe electrolyte solutions during hot months.
  • Avoid midday walks – Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower.
  • Use cooling accessories – Invest in cooling mats, vests, and frozen treats to keep your pet comfortable.
  • Protect their paws – Hot pavement can burn your pet’s paw pads. Use protective booties or walk on grass instead.

Common Household Hazards for Pets

Toxic Foods & Plants

Many common household items can be dangerous for pets. Avoid feeding your dog or cat chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, or artificial sweeteners (such as xylitol), as these can be toxic.

Certain indoor plants, such as lilies (toxic to cats) and aloe vera, should be kept out of reach.

Sharp Objects & Small Items

Keep sharp objects, small toys, and electrical cords away from pets. Cats are known to chew on wires, while dogs may swallow small objects, leading to choking hazards or digestive blockages.

Household Cleaners & Chemicals

 

Many cleaning products contain chemicals harmful to pets. Opt for pet-safe cleaning solutions or ensure your pet is not exposed to freshly cleaned surfaces.

The Importance of Microchipping & Pet Identification

Dubai and the UAE have strict regulations on pet ownership, including mandatory microchipping. However, a centralised nationwide microchip database does not exist in the UAE. Be sure to register your pet’s microchip number with the relevant municipalities and Where My Paws At safety app. Where My Paws At has helped reunite over 180 lost cats and dogs since launching.

Steps to Keep Your Pet Identifiable:

 

  • Microchip your pet and ensure your contact details are up-to-date with the veterinary clinic and municipality.
  • Use a pet ID tag with your name and phone number attached to your pet’s collar. Where My Paws At’s smart pet tags link to there app and are smart and simple to use.
  • Register your pet on Where My Paws At, a UAE-based pet safety app that helps reunite lost pets with their owners.

How to keep your pets safe outdoors

Dog Park & Beach Safety

Dubai has several pet-friendly parks and beaches, but it’s essential to follow safety measures:

  • Keep your dog on a leash in unfenced areas.
  • Supervise playtime to prevent aggressive interactions with other pets.
  • Bring fresh water to keep your pet hydrated.
  • Always ensure your dog is wearing a collar and ID tag.
 

Apartment & Balcony Safety

Many pet owners in the UAE live in high-rise apartments, making balcony safety a major concern.

 

  • Install pet-proof balcony nets to prevent falls.
  • Keep furniture away from balcony edges to discourage climbing.
  • Never leave pets unsupervised on balconies.

Emergency Preparedness: What to Do if Your Pet Goes Missing

Losing a pet is a nightmare for any pet owner, but acting quickly can improve your chances of finding them.

Immediate Steps to Take:

 

  1. Check your surroundings – Look in hiding spots, especially for cats.
  2. Use Where My Paws At – Report your lost pet on the app and notify the pet community in your area.
  3. Contact local vets & shelters – Alert them with a description and a recent photo.
  4. Use social media – Post on local pet groups and forums to widen the search.
where my paws at, paw pals, microchipped, dogs, cats

How Where My Paws At Enhances Pet Safety in the UAE

What is Where My Paws At?

Where My Paws At is the first and only pet safety app in the UAE, designed to help pet parents keep their pets safe. It offers features such as:

  • Lost & Found Pet Alerts: Instantly notify the community if your pet goes missing, increasing the chances of a quick reunion.
  • Pet Profile Creation: Store essential pet details, including medical records, microchip info, and emergency contacts.
  • Location-Based Services: Find nearby vets, pet-friendly places, groomers, and essential pet services.
  • Community Connection: Connect with other pet owners, share experiences, and get advice on pet care and safety.

 

By registering your pet on Where My Paws At, you take an extra step in ensuring their safety and making the UAE a safer place for pets.

Keeping your cat or dog safe in the UAE requires awareness, preparation, and proactive parenting. From heat safety and pet-proofing your home to using technology like Where My Paws At, these steps will help ensure your furry friend stays happy and secure.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a stress-free and safe life with your pet in the UAE. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and most importantly, shower your pet with love and care!