Dubai Municipality's Veterinary Services Section has urged owners of pet dogs and cats to get their animals vaccinated against common diseases, especially Rabies.

It also asked them to register the pets with the section.

This came in a set of general guidelines issued by the section in a bid to educate the owners of pet animals on the need to preserve public health.

The section has also reminded them that the tag, issued as a token of registration, should be worn around the neck of the pet animal, as there is a strict control policy against stray animals in Dubai.

It further reminded them that the local rules and regulations require humane treatment and good animal welfare measures for pet animals which include freedom from hunger and thirst (ready access to water and a diet to maintain health and vigour), freedom from discomfort (by providing a suitable environment), freedom from pain injury and disease (by prevention or treatment), freedom from fear and distress (by providing conditions which avoid mental suffering) and freedom to express natural behaviour (by providing sufficient space and adequate facilities).

Other instructions to the owners of pet animals include carrying out control measures for both internal and external parasites, keeping the animals under control to avoid any harm or damage to the public or properties, putting dogs in public places on leash, and maintaining the record of vaccination.

Proper care of the pets is important for their health, well-being and welfare. When the pet shows signs of disease or exhibits abnormal behavior, take the animal to the vet for check up. Always provide adequate shelter, food and water to the pets.

Clean the shelter regularly to avoid any source of infection. Keep your pets away from stray and wild animals. Keep high standards of personal hygiene.

It is highly recommended to keep the pets in a licensed kennel or cattery when the owner is out of the country and caretakers are not available. In case of a bite, clean bite area with water and soap, contact the nearest medical center and inform the concerned local authorities.

Dog owners should remove any waste or defecation materials of their animals when accompanied to public areas or outdoors. Dubai Municipality has the authority to detain or confiscate stray dogs and cats and dispose of them according to Local Order No. 11/2003.

Dubai Municipality has the authority to detain and euthanise any aggressive animal involved in any attack on people, other animals or properties or reported to as pitting case, to insure public health and safety. – TradeArabia News Service