Kuwait is witnessing a surge in calls from animal welfare activists for stronger legislation to address the rising issue of pet abandonment amid record summer temperatures. The campaign seeks mandatory microchipping and registration of cats and dogs, harsher penalties for abandonment, and more rigorous enforcement of existing animal welfare laws to reduce the suffering of abandoned pets.
Activists report an increasing number of cats and dogs being left on the streets during months when temperatures can reach as high as 50 degrees Celsius. Many of these animals, they say, face severe hardship, including starvation, illness, and death. May Sahili, an animal rescuer, noted that she has taken in 10 cats this summer alone that had been dumped by their owners, often due to minor health issues or because they were not spayed or neutered. Sahili emphasized that domestic cats, accustomed to care and shelter, do not survive well in harsh outdoor conditions, especially in the heat, and called for government intervention to support responsible pet ownership.
“The burden on shelters and rescuers is substantial, with costs in food, medical treatment, and cleaning supplies rising monthly,” Sahili said. She advocated for microchipping programs as a cost-effective method to help hold owners accountable, citing low charges ranging from five to fifteen Kuwaiti dinars. Imposing fines on those who abandon animals, she added, could deter irresponsible behavior and encourage prospective owners to consider the long-term commitment required in pet care.
Other animal lovers echo these concerns. Abeer Abdulrahim, who cares for three cats, described pet abandonment as both a moral and societal issue, beyond just legal matters. She lamented how pets are often seen as disposable rather than lifelong companions, contributing to the growth of stray populations. Highlighting the cultural perspective, Abdulrahim called on the community to show compassion toward animals, reflecting Islamic teachings on caring for all living beings. She also noted neighborhood tensions arising from stray cats, suggesting stronger governmental oversight could alleviate the situation.
Dog and cat owner Ali Hamed called for improvements to animal welfare regulations and their enforcement, criticizing the continued operation of animal markets that, he argued, contribute to the problem. Hamed recommended government support for sterilization programs, animal shelters, and feeding stations, while emphasizing education and awareness in homes as crucial factors in fostering empathy toward pets.
Meanwhile, Suliman Alfadhli, also a dog owner, discussed Kuwait’s existing Law No. 9 of 1969 on dog ownership and rabies prevention. The law requires obtaining licenses that include detailed information about both owners and their dogs, with penalties for noncompliance including fines and possible imprisonment. However, Alfadhli noted that the law is no longer actively enforced but suggested reviving and updating it could enhance animal welfare efforts. He proposed increasing fines beyond the current maximum of 30 Kuwaiti dinars to serve as a stronger deterrent.
The activists’ campaign underscores growing public concern over animal welfare in Kuwait and calls on the government to implement comprehensive measures to protect pets and reduce abandonment during the harsh summer months.