Families have been urged to think twice before taking a pet into their lives and warned that they must act with care and consideration for any animal they decide to welcome into their homes.
The long-term commitments and costs involved have also been hammered out in no uncertain terms, not by a concerned charity as is usually the case, but a top police chief.
Police officers are normally the officials called to handle complaints by members of the public over packs of stray dogs causing concern in the community. It’s a thankless task and Hidd Police Station head Colonel Dr Osama Bahar used the airwaves to make his point.
“Raising animals is an ancient tradition in Bahrain dating back centuries,” said Col Dr Bahar, speaking on the Al Aman show on social media.
“It is a beautiful and enjoyable hobby, but people need to be aware of their duties as pet parents.
“In Bahrain and all the GCC countries, the law stipulates the protection of animals from any harm, pain or suffering.
“It also prohibits any form of mistreatment, as it is a fundamental tenet of Islam, which forbids beating or insulting animals,” reminding pet owners in the kingdom to ensure that they know what their responsibilities are.
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He emphasised the need for pets to be treated with compassion, warned against abandoning furry friends, no matter what the reason, and to be sure anyone planning to bring a pet home to think closely before they even decide to add a new member to their family.
Before even getting an animal, Col Dr Bahar stated that it was important, particularly those considering becoming first-time pet owners, to fully know what they are getting themselves into.
“After seeing people with cats, dogs or birds on social media, you may suddenly get the urge to get a pet for yourself,” he added. “However, once you take on an animal, no matter what it is, you will see that raising it is something that is not only rewarding, but a choice that requires a lot of attention and effort.
“Before you even think of getting one, you must ensure that you are bringing the animal into a suitable place. You must also have an appropriate budget to cover the cost of food and periodic visits to the veterinarian.”
Col Dr Bahar also warned people against abandoning animals once they get tired of them.
“If pet owners change their mind, the merciful thing to do would be either give it to someone else for adoption, or find someone willing to take care of them temporarily until a forever home is found.
“Absolutely do not abandon an animal that is dependent on you,” he said.
“If you cannot take care of it, find somebody who can, either by giving them out for adoption, or finding them a foster home until another person takes them on.
“Do not throw it out on the streets, as most pets do not know how to fend for themselves.
“Even if you are going on holiday, make sure they are taken care of, and do not leave it on its own.
“By abandoning the animal, you may think you have saved your time, money and effort, but in reality, you just put the animal in a position where they might end up suffering.”
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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