JEDDAH, 9 October 2003 — A new initiative to raise public awareness of animal welfare was launched in Jeddah recently. Targeted initially at owners of domestic animals, the project aims to reach out to schools and prospective pet owners to care for and train their animals humanely.
The project, a joint venture initiated by the Tahlia International Veterinary Clinic in association with Fayfa, a well-known Jeddah pet store, will be open to all to attend, and is free.
“It makes sound commercial and moral sense,” said Yousef Al-Sayegh, the Fayfa managing director. “Animals that are cared for well are both happier and will develop better relationships with their owners. If owners are aware of the problems and responsibilities involved before they buy an animal, it will cost them less to look after in the long run. I think it’s time to introduce new ideas and attitudes in the sale and ownership of pets.”
Land adjacent to the clinic and pet store is being converted into a grass paddock where deer and a pair of ponies, currently in small concrete pens, can graze and live in more appropriate conditions.
“When the paddock is finished, it will be used both for grazing and as a dog-training area,” said Deborah Zahid, owner of the clinic. The area will be open to all to visit, learn how to look after animals in evening lectures and to pet animals that are safe. To contribute toward reducing the number of abandoned animals, kennels and other accommodation is planned.
Dr. Raad Abuzinada, head of the National Commission for Wildlife and Conservation Development, said: “Animals in the wild have developed to fit their environment,” he said. “Domestic animals also have very specific needs, and owners need to understand what those needs are so their animals are as well cared for as they can be. This project is a valuable step toward bringing that about.”
“Pets are fun,” Deborah Zahid said, “but lion cubs grow into lions — baboons bite and snakes kill. Rather than keep them as pets, focus on domesticated animals. Even these can cause problems — zoonotic diseases being one special hazard.”
“Our joint aim is to raise awareness among children and adults before they commit to purchasing a pet and eventually make life better for animals in captivity, initially in Jeddah but eventually Kingdomwide,” she said.
