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'Adopt, don't shop': RAK shelter to host snow party for abandoned pets

The event is not just about having fun; it’s about changing perceptions and encouraging responsible pet ownership, said organisers

Published: Mon 20 Jan 2025, 6:00 AM

Updated: Sat 25 Jan 2025, 1:03 PM

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Several abandoned pets who have long been waiting for their "forever homes" will be turning up at a special 'snow party' in Ras Al Khaimah on January 25.

Hosted by the RAK Animal Welfare Centre, the Snow Party will run from 3pm to 9pm. And in this winter wonderland created by snow machines, the shelter hopes their furry friends can finally meet their forever family.

“Some of our pets have been here for years, with a few waiting for their forever homes for as long as six years," said Lana Karim, the head of community wildlife services at the RAK Animal Welfare Centre. "It’s heartbreaking, and we hope events like this will help them find loving families."

While the centre is home to more than a thousand cats and dogs, they won't be able to bring all of them to the event.

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“It’s designed to be a fun day out for families, whether they have pets or not. Those without dogs can take our shelter dogs for a day of fun in the dog park,” Lana said.

This interaction not only provides joy for the pets but also helps prospective adopters see the personalities of the animals in a more relaxed environment.

Besides the adoption drive, the group also seeks to turn the spotlight on responsible pet ownership, 'while emphasising that adoption is the way to go".

Attendees can also enjoy a variety of food and pet accessory vendors, all while learning about the shelter's mission to raise awareness about pet adoption. “We want people to come, have fun, and learn about the importance of helping animals in need. Our goal is to show that shelters are a viable option for pet ownership,” Lana added.

While the event is free, the shelter encourages attendees to bring donations such as blankets, towels, and dog leashes. “Every little bit helps, and we appreciate the community’s support,” she noted. These donations will go a long way in ensuring the comfort and care of the shelter animals.

Lana highlighted the success of previous events like the annual pool party. “We’ve seen increased awareness about pet adoption in the UAE. Many attendees who previously bought pets are now choosing to adopt,” she shared.

This shift in mindset is crucial for reducing the number of abandoned animals and fostering a culture of compassion toward pets.

In addition to the Snow Party, the shelter runs several other initiatives aimed at promoting animal welfare. One such initiative is the Dog Day Out program, which allows people to take shelter dogs for outings, whether for a hike or a simple car ride. “It gives our dogs a break from the shelter environment and helps them socialise,” Lana said.

The shelter also has a Cat Wellness Program that focuses on caring for community cats, providing feeding stations, and ensuring they are neutered and vaccinated. “Our aim is to educate the public about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering,” she added.

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