ABU DHABI LAUNCH INVESTIGATION AFTER ‘MORE THAN 100’ CATS FOUND DUMPED IN DESERT

Fri 06 October 2023:

Authorities in Abu Dhabi announced they have begun an inquiry after more than 100 cats, many of which were dead, were discovered in the UAE capital’s desert, condemning the “inhumane act”, Al Arabiya reported.

Animal rescuers were left horrified after the cats and kittens were discovered in the al-Falah area of the UAE capital, close to the emirate’s Falcon Hospital.

Video footage shared with Al Arabiya English shows scores of cats lying dead or buried in the sand.

Those that were still alive were visibly weak and dehydrated, said the rescuers, who had been working through the night to find them temporary homes.

To date, more than 50 cats were found dead in stages of rigor mortis in the desert, while a further 84 were found alive, although many suffered from dehydration and malnutrition. Rescuers are now working to rehome the cats found alive.

Almost all of the cats were found to have been microchipped and neutered through TNR (trap, neuter, release programs).

Images shared on social media appear to show cats lying still in the sand, with more than 200 found, according to volunteers, including two dogs.

Italy-based charity OIPA says volunteers – who work independently – found pets in “different stages of decomposition”, with some on the sand and others just below the surface.

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) on Wednesday confirmed that it has initiated investigations into the incident.

In a statement, it said: “The DMT immediately began the investigations after receiving the report and will take all relevant administrative and legal measures.”

“The DMT has stressed that it has taken all necessary measures to establish the reasons behind this act, noting that investigations are still underway in coordination with the relevant authorities to identify perpetrators of this inhumane act, which contradicts civilized morals and values.”

“The DMT has also underscored that it values the sentiments of the public and activists and recognizes the contributions of volunteers in responding to this incident.”

“The DMT urged them to cooperate and communicate to share any details related to the incident, to ensure that the recurrence of practices conflicting with the DMT’s stance on animal welfare are duly averted.”

Tadweer, the government department responsible for pest control, uses several contractors to deal with stray cats, who are usually taken to Falcon Hospital, where they are checked for disease and, if found to be healthy, are neutered and returned to the community where they were found.

The DMT called on the public to report any abuse or neglect that exposes animals to danger by contacting 800 555.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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