A disturbing video recently surfaced in Dubai, showing a man brutally abusing his pet dog on a balcony in Jumeirah Village Circle. The footage, captured by a neighbor, depicts the dog being kicked and choked by its owner. This incident sparked immediate action from animal rescue volunteers and activists, who reported the abuse to Dubai Police and the Emirates Animal Welfare Society. The dog, a French Bulldog, was rescued and taken into custody by Dubai Municipality, where it will receive necessary care until further investigations are completed.
The original owner of the dog, a digital marketer, claimed that the dog was taken from her by the abuser through threats. She had been trying to retrieve her pet for months but faced numerous challenges. Upon seeing the viral video, she immediately booked a flight from Spain to Dubai to reclaim her dog, armed with the original dog passport.
Animal welfare activists, including model Tia Mallia, played a crucial role in identifying the abuser and reporting his social media accounts. The power of social media was instrumental in tracking down the perpetrator and ensuring swift action by authorities.
In the UAE, animal cruelty is a serious offense under Federal Law No. 16 of 2007, as amended by Federal Law No. 18 of 2016. This law emphasizes the importance of treating animals with dignity and respect, mandating adequate care and supervision. Violations can result in imprisonment and significant fines.
The incident highlights the importance of community involvement in preventing animal abuse and the need for stricter enforcement of animal welfare laws in the UAE. As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect animals and ensure their humane treatment.