Animals suffer in cramped cages

Sharjah: The transportation of kangaroos and other wild animals continue to persist in Sharjah despite the municipality implementing strict regulations to avoid the practise.

"The only animals that are allowed to be transported are those used for abattoirs, arriving from Abu Dhabi or Dubai," said Dr Mohammad Badiker, Head of Veterinary Section, Public Health Department at Sharjah Municipality.

On a recent visit to Sharjah Bird and Animal Market, residents were shocked to find kangaroos and ostriches in small cages.

"I went to the animal market last weekend and it was such a horrible experience. How on earth can you put four Kangaroos in a tiny cage to eat, drink and waste? The feathers of the ostriches were falling off, and a Siamese cat was defecating blood," said Ray Al Sa'ady, adding that the cat was being sold for Dh1,500.

"The whole place should be put down because it looked so poorly maintained. The animals should not be treated in this way," he pointed out.

Gulf News visited the Bird and Animal Market but was unable to find the kangaroos as they were already transported to another emirate.

The shopkeeper responsible for selling the kangaroos, said, "The kangaroos stopped at the market for only one day because they were on their way to Umm Al Quwain. It is not allowed to keep them here, but we have them on a farm. If customers want to buy them, I can give them a coupon number and we can arrange for a driver to take them to the farm," said the shopkeeper.

Tens of cats, dogs, chickens, turkeys and large turtles were seen caged in confined spaces, and were almost piling on top of each other due to the lack of space. Many of the birds had red patches around their eyes and looked ill.

Dr Badiker said: "It is the doctor's responsibility to ensure the animals are kept in hygienic conditions and spacious cages.

When was the last time you visited a zoo? What measures do you think need to be taken to ensure animal welfare? Fill in the form bellow to send your comments.

I visited the market just yesterday and was shocked to see the kangaroo in a glass enclosure where he/she wasn't even able to stand up straight.
Mohammad
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: October 16, 2008, 11:32

I was last in sharjah animal market about a month ago and seeing the poor animals suffocating is unbearable. the respective authorities must take necessary action to avoid this situation.
AS
Dubai,UAE
Posted: October 16, 2008, 10:12

We used to visit Dubai zoo often, because my kid loves it so much. While you roam over Dubai you will feel you are in most modern city. But, while you roam Dubai Zoo you may feel that you are in very poor country. I feel if the authority takes a good initiative many business organizations will co-operate for a better infrastructure for a new zoo.Al-ain Zoo is the best in UAE and have higher facilities, which can be compared with any parts of the world. And Sharjah zoo in the Desert park also have good facilities.
Shabeer
Dubai,UAE
Posted: October 16, 2008, 09:39

There is one pet shop at Quasis near Al Tawar center. I found a beautiful (endangered species) parrot in a cage the poor bird can only take a few moves in that cage. I think keeping these endangered species of bird/animal is illegal .Can anybody pls..... take some measures to free this parrot from the cage so that it can fly freely in the nature.
xxx
Dubai,UAE
Posted: October 16, 2008, 08:49

I will not have a fair explanation to tell my kids as to why the animals are in "jail" for their whole life. So I do not take my child to the zoo, though I had done that once. In the UAE the pet shops and the breeders are the prime culprits in animal cruelty. One shop in Ghusais houses cats and dogs in cramped condition - kitten shivering, due to poor nutrition and exercise. There are enough unwanted pets around - breeding should be banned for a few years, so that the unwanted becomes a little "wanted" and loved. Parents need to teach their children that a cat or a dog is not a toy. Ideally each pet should have a record with the Government so that wilful abuse can be monitored.
Jayan B
Dubai,UAE
Posted: October 16, 2008, 08:26

The standard of animal welfare in the UAE is very low compared to other western countries, and the UAE Government should take more forceful measures to prevent cruel and inhumane treatment towards animals.
Carissa
Dubai,UAE
Posted: October 16, 2008, 08:18

cramped cages are common in Sharjah animal market.traders should ensure enough space, good ventilation and proper food for animals.It is very strange that all these violations are happening in a place which is open to public and various stringent measures to be taken by authorities to stop this.
Nshar
Sharjah,U A E
Posted: October 16, 2008, 07:40