Exclusive: The Desperate Plight of Pets Left Behind in War-Hit Dubai
In the wake of escalating regional tensions and missile strikes over the United Arab Emirates, a mass exodus of expatriates from Dubai has unfolded, leaving behind a silent and heartbreaking crisis: thousands of abandoned pets. Animal shelters across the city are now inundated with dogs and cats, many found wandering the streets or left in boxes at sanctuary gates, as owners flee in haste, unable to take their animals with them.
Shelters Overwhelmed by Surge in Abandoned Animals
Anso Stander, founder of the Six Hounds Animal Sanctuary in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, reports an alarming increase in animals wandering without owners, primarily due to relocations or panicked flights from the country. "During periods of regional uncertainty or sudden relocations, pets unfortunately become some of the first victims," she explained. The sanctuary, which is self-funded, has reached full capacity, with 220 cats, 34 dogs, and 10 newborn kittens currently in care, alongside 14 puppies being fostered by a friend.
Stander highlighted that airlines are not accepting animals due to limited services, forcing many to surrender their pets. "People are leaving the country and telling us very politely and discreetly that if we can't take them, we're going to leave them," she said, noting instances of individuals with up to 20 cats attempting to flee. In one poignant case, a box of kittens was left at her gate with a handwritten note apologizing for the abandonment amid the crisis.
Euthanasia and Tragic Deaths Amid the Chaos
Beyond abandonment, the situation has led to more severe outcomes. Vets are facing inquiries about euthanizing healthy pets as owners avoid relocation costs and paperwork. Devastatingly, Stander knows of two dogs who were shot in the desert, underscoring the dire circumstances. She criticized some pet owners' actions as "selfish and heartless," arguing that the government has control, but the lack of community support has left shelters struggling with veterinary bills and resources.
Claire Hopkins, a Dubai resident volunteering with animal organizations, confirmed that shelters are under severe financial pressure, with fundraising activities highly regulated and platforms like GoFundMe banned. "Some pet owners are stressed and panicking," she said, adding that vets have received euthanasia requests, though most redirect animals to already full shelters.
Influencer Backlash Highlights Broader Issues
The crisis gained public attention when influencer Maddy Burciaga faced backlash from animal rights group La Ligue Des Animaux after revealing she left her dog behind while fleeing to Mauritius. Burciaga, who has 2.7 million Instagram followers, claimed it was due to complicated paperwork, but the group condemned her, stating, "Dogs are ready to go through a war just to stay with their humans." Burciaga later defended her actions, explaining it was a temporary vacation and threatening legal action, but the incident has sparked wider debate about pet abandonment during conflicts.
Plea for Support and Community Action
Stander and other rescuers are pleading for help, as they work around the clock to rescue and rehome animals. "It would really mean so much if people can reach out and we can rehome some animals," she said, noting that while GoFundMe is unavailable, legitimate payment links exist. Dubai Municipality has responded by launching 12 AI-powered feeding stations for strays, but shelters emphasize that more support is urgently needed to build emergency structures, cover food costs, and pay vet bills.
As the conflict continues, the silent suffering of pets in Dubai serves as a stark reminder of the collateral damage in times of crisis, with animal advocates calling for greater responsibility and aid to prevent further tragedies.
