By Binsal Abdul Kader
Staff Reporter
Published: 07:00 November 9, 2014
Abu Dhabi:
In January 2011, Abu Dhabi banned the entry of all types of dogs to beaches, swimming pools, closed or open family parks, shopping centres, restaurants, etc.
The civic authority also warned against leaving dogs uncontrolled, which risks their life by being exposed to traffic while crossing the road and to other road users.
The municipality was planning to promulgate the rules and regulations related to ownership and housing of pets, and enforce a compulsory immunisation and numbering system of pets, including cats, through the microchip system. The civic body also planned to designate certain areas at parks for dogs, addressing all requirements of safety and prevention of cruelty to animals.
A request from Gulf News for an updated status on all these rules and regulations was not answered by an official spokesperson of the municipality for this report.
Meanwhile, a voluntary organisation that runs the website http://www.adopt-me.ae has identified dog-friendly places in Abu Dhabi with the help of its volunteers. However, it has cautioned that all official signboards stating rules on restriction of pets at the site must be respected.
Dog-friendly places
1) Yas Island, Kite Beach
2) Open beach opposite Abu Dhabi Exhibition Centre, Al Safarat
3) Le Boulanger Beach on Khaleej Al Arabi Street.
4) Al Muneera Beach Plaza
Dogs are strictly not allowed on the beach. however we have been told by dog owners they have been allowed to sit at some of the cafes along the beach plaza. However, it is always good to ask the cafe management before you take your pet there. Al Muneera is a pet-friendly community.
5) Café Firenze Al Zeina, Al Raha Beach.
The owner of this cafe has confirmed it is for pet owners to bring their pet on the premises. Al Zeina is a pet-friendly community.
6) Al Reef Community
Lots of great pathways in this gated community. Al Reef is a pet-friendly community. There are also some areas behind the villa areas (in the desert) where dog owners walk their dogs.
7) Falcon Hospital Dog Agility Park
Open 8am – 4pm. Fee: Dh20 per hour. Bookings a must.
via Areas in Abu Dhabi to walk pets | GulfNews.com.
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