Beware Of Scams: How To Rescue Animals Safely Online In The UAE

Farah Makhlouf

You’ve decided to adopt a pet… Good for you!

There are heaps of reputable animal shelters crying out for paw-parents to come and adopt, but first parents should understand the cost and change in lifestyle that comes with bringing a pet into your family, and unfortunately, the small possibility of pet adoption fraud you may encounter.

Recently, there have been reports of scams, and people profiteering from the online sale of animals in the UAE, which is illegal. The rise in scams has led classified site Dubizzle to strike partnerships with registered shelters like K9 Friends Shelter and RAK Animal Welfare. The partnership means the animal shelters get access to free certified accounts on Dubizzle and gives their posts increased visibility on the Dubizzle feed. So, look out for the ‘featured’ tag and you’ll know you’re in touch with a trusted source!

K9 Friends is a dog shelter in Dubai with 125 animals available for adoption, they also offer foster opportunities, so you can see what it’s like to look after an animal. Before making a lifelong commitment there are many more factors you should consider; for example, the energy level of the animal, its age, size and the temperament of the breed are all things you should consider, according to K9. Research plays a key role, but rescue shelters have plenty of options, (and knowledgeable teams!) to help you find the animal for you.

Spot the ‘featured’ tag now visible on verified rescue shelters on Dubizzle

Read to adopt? Answer these questions prepped by Rak Animal Welfare Shelter

Before you decide to adopt a dog or a cat, ask yourself a few QUESTIONS:
Why do I/we want to adopt a pet?
Are you ready to make a long-term commitment? 10 to 15 years?
Do you know what kind of pet is right for you?
Can you afford to care for your pet’s health and safety?
Will you be able to spend quality time together?
Do you have a plan for your pet during vacations and/or work travel?
Are you prepared to deal with any possible health challenges?
Are you willing to train your animal friend?
Are you prepared to pet-proof your home?
Is your living space adequate and appropriate for your animal of choice?
Is your family ready for a pet? Is your current pet able to accept a new friend?
Do any members of your household have allergies to hair, dirt, and other realities of sharing your home with a pet?
And…..
Are you prepared for the relocation costs when you leave the UAE and return to your
country of origin?
-Enter pet ownership as a lifetime commitment. Do not get a pet until you are sure you have the resources and time to care for this animal. In return, you will be rewarded with unconditional love.

 

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A post shared by RAK Animal Welfare Center (@rakawc)

Watch out for scams

According to Dubizzle, Welfare Charities are being photoshopped and reposted as scam ads, duping people into fraudulent purchases.
The buy & sell website has set up anti-scam ads to combat this, but there’s more to be done. The website has partnered with reputable animal welfare like K9 and RAK Animal Welfare so when you’re scrolling the Dubizzle feed, you’ll now spot a ‘featured’ category, which confirms the authenticity of the welfare shelter.
The selling of animals is prohibited and against the law in the UAE and this new ‘featured’ category is an attempt to combat it.
So, like how Insta has blue ticks for verified people, Dubizzle now has ‘featured’ listings and verified accounts to ensure the authenticity of its sellars.

 

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A post shared by K9 Friends Dubai (@k9friendsdubai)

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