Adopting a Rescue Dog: Essential Dos & Don’ts in the UAE

Deciding whether you are ready to bring home a rescue dog can feel overwhelming. There are so many questions to consider, from daily walks and feeding routines to veterinary care, training and long-term commitment.

However, as any dog owner will attest, dogs are unequivocally worth it. When you adopt a rescue dog, you gain unconditional love, companionship, motivation to stay active, and a loyal friend for life.

For families considering rescue dog adoption in Dubai, making an informed decision is essential. Every dog has a unique personality, energy level and background, so finding the right match for your lifestyle is incredibly important.

In this blog post, we will be exploring the important dos and don’ts of adopting your new furry best friend. We recommend reading this post from start to finish before coming to find your waggy-tailed soulmate!

A rescue dog settling into a new home in Dubai

"At Stray Dogs Center, many of our rescue dogs are loving family pets simply waiting for a second chance."

DO:

Make Sure You Do Your Research

After all, knowledge is invaluable, and in order to select a dog that is right for you and your routine, you must ensure that you read up on the differences between dogs of various breeds, ages and temperaments.

Do you have the time necessary to dedicate yourself to a puppy? To all the toilet training, socialisation, and inoculations that accompany puppy care?

Likewise, do you have the experience and willingness to coax a mistreated individual, who perhaps has had a painful, traumatic past, out of their shell? Although this can be one of the most rewarding experiences of all, it requires a certain level of perseverance and patience that not everyone may feel comfortable committing to.

Additionally, it is vital to realise that not all adult rescue dogs are difficult or ‘untrainable’ which is a myth that many people seem to believe. In fact, the majority of rescue dogs are simply unwanted pets. Hence, they are usually accustomed to home life and will fit right in after a short adjustment period.

At Stray Dogs Center, many of our rescue dogs are loving family pets simply waiting for a second chance.

"Responsible dog ownership begins with planning ahead."

DON’T:

Adopt a Dog Unless You Are Financially Prepared

As aforementioned, dogs are undeniably a big commitment, and throughout their lifetime can consume vast quantities of food and go through many beds, bowls, toys and leashes.

They also require annual or biannual vet visits to stay healthy and keep their immunization records up to date, not to mention boarding facilities or pet-sitting when you are abroad.

All these expenses also do not include the unfortunate fact that dogs can have accidents and that, as dogs age, their medical bills can increase.

Plus, if you plan to relocate, you must account for your dog in your travel plans. Many canines are abandoned on the streets of the UAE simply because their owners are moving and haven’t had the foresight to plan for their pet.

A good rule of thumb is to put aside a savings account for your new dog that you pay into every month, just in case an unexpected situation arises. This means that if your circumstances change, you are adequately prepared to bring your furry family member along with you.

Responsible dog ownership begins with planning ahead.

Our team does this every day, and they are genuinely skilled at finding great matches between people and dogs.

DO:

Take Your Time Choosing the Right Rescue Dog

Dogs can live for up to 15 years or more, and as previously stated, choosing to adopt a dog is a decision for life.

With over 1700+ dogs desperately awaiting their furever home, you can be sure that we have your ideal match. Our shelter houses dogs of various breeds, sizes, ages and personalities, from shepherds to desert specials to lapdogs. Finding the perfect furry friend is just a matter of time.

When you are looking at the dogs available for adoption, take note of the ones you feel would suit your schedule and needs. Although it may be tempting, don’t just focus on images alone. Read about the details of the dog in question and take this information into account.

For example, you may see a photo of a husky puppy that you think is adorable; however, if you live in an small studio apartment, adopting such a large, active breed would not be fair to them.

Once you submit a non-binding adoption application, our experienced adoptions team uses the information you provide about your lifestyle, home environment and preferences to carefully match you with suitable dogs. Our team does this every day, and they are genuinely skilled at finding great matches between people and dogs. They may suggest other dogs that could be a better fit. You will also be invited to meet shortlisted candidates in person, so you can connect and see where the right match naturally forms.

Adoptions also include a trial period to ensure both you and the dog are well matched before everything is finalised, helping build a lasting bond for both the adopter and the rescue dog.

DON’T:

Think You Have To Do It Alone

Dogs can be complicated and confusing to deal with sometimes. You may have questions about certain aspects of dog care, or you require recommendations for dog grooming or other pet-related services.

It suffices to say that the dog community in the UAE is big, warm and welcoming, and there is no shortage of support should you need it.

We also have a dedicated WhatsApp support group for adopters, and our team is always available to offer guidance even after adoption if any issues arise. Feel free to reach out to neighbourhood pet groups or even online forums or blogs, and be assured that people would be happy to help.

When you adopt a rescue dog from Stray Dogs Center, you become part of a compassionate community of animal lovers across Dubai and the UAE.

DO:

Involve All Family Members in the Decision

Just a reminder: this includes other pets, such as existing dogs or even cats.

If you have resident felines, it is essential that you prioritize dogs with a proven track record of amiably getting along with cats, or very young puppies that, with careful introduction, can grow to accustom themselves to other species.

This concept also applies to young children. Dogs that have been previously fostered in a child-friendly home are more likely to tolerate toddlers and infants compared to those that may have never encountered a child before.

Once your adoption application has been approved, you will be invited to meet dogs at our weekly adoption events. This is a great opportunity to spend time with different dogs and see who you naturally connect with. We recommend attending without your own pets, but children are welcome and encouraged to join so they can also meet the dogs and be part of the decision-making process.

Depending on your situation and availability, our adoptions team can also arrange a private meet-up with suitable dogs. In these cases, you are welcome to bring your family dog so they can meet in a more controlled and comfortable setting before any decision is made.

A successful dog adoption starts with making sure the entire family feels comfortable and connected.

DON’T:

Expect Perfection

In the age of social media and Instagram, it is easy to be swept up into the perfect fantasy of a dog that looks, behaves and acts exactly how you would like.

Building a lasting, faithful bond with a dog requires extensive dedication, diligence and enthusiasm, and the reality is that our relationships with our pets do not have to be perfect to still be founded on trust, devotion and mutual love.

When choosing your new four-legged best friend, keep an open mind. You never know, you might be surprised.

Some of the most overlooked rescue dogs become the most loyal and loving companions imaginable.

Why Adopt a Rescue Dog in Dubai?

If you are properly prepared, adopting a dog is one of the most fulfilling and compassionate things you can do to make a difference in the world and gain a loyal, sincere companion for life.

Rescue dogs offer complete, utter and wholehearted love, unwavering friendship, and comfort when you are feeling down. They also encourage healthier habits, helping people stay active, socialise more, and build stronger daily routines.

Their gratitude at being offered a second chance to enjoy life will warm your heart and bring a smile to your face.

Every adoption also helps shelters continue rescuing abandoned and vulnerable dogs across Dubai and the UAE.

Ready To Adopt?

Are you ready to become a dog owner?

Visit our Available Dogs page to meet rescue dogs currently looking for loving homes and begin your adoption journey.

Your future best friend might already be waiting for you. 🐾

MEET AVAILABLE DOGS