29/11/2025
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29/11/2025
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KUWAIT CITY, Nov 29: Plans are underway to establish an integrated shelter for stray dogs in an area measuring 10,000 square meters. Supervisor of Animal Health and Epidemic Control at the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR) Dr. Ahmad Al-Hamad confirmed that the Authority banned the importation of dogs and cats for commercial purposes.
He stated that each citizen is allowed to import only one dog per year, in accordance with the procedures and regulations aimed at addressing the stray dog problem. Al-Hamad made the statement at a seminar organized by Kuwaiti Lawyers Association recently with the theme “Towards a Compassionate Legal Environment”, during which he pointed out that Kuwait witnessed a significant rise in the number of stray dogs and cats in residential areas in recent years. He disclosed this increase has prompted PAAAFR to intensify its field operations and regulatory measures to address the issue in a way that protects residents and preserves ecological balance. He said the PAAAFR teams captured thousands of stray dogs in various residential areas within a year, responding to reports received through the emergency hotline and communication channels allotted for residents’ complaints.
He added the Authority also designated a direct phone line and WhatsApp service at 56575070 to facilitate reporting and speed up response times. He revealed the efforts of PAAAFR extend beyond capturing animals and include sterilization programs for a number of dogs to control their population before releasing some into suitable environments. He affirmed that some animals are offered for adoption once their health is checked -- a measure aimed at reducing pressure on residential areas and encouraging adoption, instead of leaving animals on the streets. He went on to say that the Authority submitted a request to allocate a 10,000-square-meter land for the establishment of an integrated shelter for stray dogs, away from residential and commercial areas.
He added this shelter will include facilities for veterinary care, sterilization and quarantine, in preparation for adoption or rehabilitation.
Meanwhile, Kuwait Lawyers Association announced the formation of a committee for the protection of animal welfare, headed by Attorney Alaa Al-Makhial, to activate the social and environmental roles of the Association, alongside its legal mission. Secretary of Kuwait Institute for Legal Studies Jarrah Al-Enezi affirmed that the Association is ready to adopt draft animal protection laws, in cooperation with the concerned government agencies.
