A puppy is for life - not a slow death

For pet owners in the Gulf, it is the time of year when they are fraught with worry on where to place their beloved animals. Unless they were alert to the difficulties created by the shortage of boarding kennels and catteries and had booked some six months in advance, they will have to reply on the kindness of friends.

Sadly, another alternative that has been used over the years is for so-called pet owners to abandon their pets, to fend for themselves, in the streets or desert. It is tantamount to letting the pet die a slow death through starvation or, more likely, dehydration. The full consequences of caring for a pet should be considered before taking on the responsibility.

Equally, with so many weaning puppies being smuggled from Eastern Europe into many countries, it is necessary to ensure the puppy being adopted has a fitness certificate from a certified veterinarian.