In a decisive move to address a growing public safety and ecological concern, Kuwait has announced a comprehensive ban on the commercial import of dogs and cats. The Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR) enacted the measure to tackle the rising population of stray animals in residential areas, a problem fueled by uncontrolled breeding and abandonment.
Details of the Import Ban and Exemptions
The new policy represents a major shift in Kuwait's approach to pet regulation. It immediately prohibits the sale of imported dogs and cats within the country, effectively shutting down the commercial pet import channel. This action aims to regulate the pet market and reduce the inflow of animals that often end up neglected on the streets.
However, the authority has introduced a strict exemption for private ownership. Each Kuwaiti citizen is now permitted to import a maximum of one dog per year for personal use only. This carefully measured exception is designed to allow responsible pet ownership while preventing the trade from exacerbating the stray crisis. Dr. Ahmad Al Hamad, the Supervisor of Animal Health and Epidemic Control at PAAAFR, stated that the recent surge in stray animals necessitated this intensified regulatory action.
Holistic Strategy: From Capture to Shelter
PAAAFR's strategy extends far beyond the import ban, encompassing a dedicated and humane animal welfare plan. A key component is the request for a 10,000-square-meter plot of land to establish a large, integrated shelter for stray dogs outside urban zones. This facility is planned to include veterinary clinics, sterilization units, and quarantine areas.
The authority's multi-pronged operational strategy involves:
- Capture: Teams have already captured thousands of stray dogs from residential districts over the past year.
- Medical Care & Sterilization: Captured animals receive thorough health checks and treatment, followed by active sterilization programs to control reproduction.
- Adoption & Managed Release: Healthy animals are either offered for adoption or released back into suitable, managed environments to ease urban pressure.
To facilitate public involvement, PAAAFR has launched a direct reporting line and a WhatsApp service (56575070) for residents to report stray animals.
Government and Legal Collaboration for Animal Welfare
The enforcement of this new policy is a collaborative effort, involving the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Commerce, and PAAAFR. Signalling strong civil society support, the Kuwaiti Lawyers Association has announced the formation of a new Committee for Humane Living Conditions, chaired by lawyer Alaa Al Makhial.
Jarrah Al-Anzi, the Association's Secretary, confirmed that this committee will work with government agencies to draft and support new legislation aimed at advancing animal protection laws. This coordinated push between government bodies and legal experts marks a significant step towards fostering ethical pet ownership and strengthening animal welfare frameworks in Kuwait.
