Dubai: In an unusual show of support, animal lovers from the UAE and beyond have launched an online campaign to save Trip, the American Staffordshire terrier which is in detention at the Dubai Municipality for killing poodle Pluto at the Dubai Pet Show on February 3.
"Our ‘SAVE TRIP' campaign on the social media is a photo petition against any move to put an end to Trip's life," said Ragini Nagu, a 21-year-old Dubai-based artist who spearheaded the campaign through her blog ‘In Conundrums'. "His owners swear by his pleasant nature and claim Trip acted in self-defence. Unfortunately, the penalty for Trip's behaviour could be death," said a message on the Facebook page which recorded 500 ‘Likes' in the first three days.
"We urge all of you to take a picture with the sign ‘I want to SAVE TRIP' and use it as your profile picture on Facebook, Twitter or/and any other networking website. This way, you will be taking a strong stance against Trip's misfortune," the message said, adding, "We acknowledge that Pluto's death was tragic and send our condolences to the dog's family, but blood for blood is never the answer. The solution could be as simple as a muzzle, a little training and a firm grip on the leash when taking your dog outdoors," the Facebook page said.
About 60 pictures have so far been posted on the page. "Life+death is in God's hands. Who are we to pass the death judgment on Trip?" read a placard.
"The court had a hearing on Monday and we are told a final decision will be taken soon. We hope for the best," said Nagu.
