Twelve dog waste disposal stations have been set up at key locations across Amwaj Islands, marking a significant step towards improving public cleanliness and encouraging responsible pet ownership.
New warning and educational signs have also been placed throughout the island to raise awareness about the importance of cleaning up after pets and to reinforce community standards and environmental responsibility.
The initiative has been carried out in collaboration with Amwaj Islands Central Owners Association and Jetpet Global (JPG), a Bahrain-based international pet relocation agency.
“The idea for this came from my own experience,” JPG owner Inge Michiels told the GDN.
“As a resident of Dilmunia, I saw dog waste bags being distributed in my pet-friendly building late last year to help keep the surroundings clean.”
When the supply ran out, Ms Michiels stepped in to provide additional bags branded with the JPG logo, which were well received by the building management.
“Since then, I have reached out to pet-friendly hotels and residential buildings to expand the initiative,” she said, adding that Amwaj Islands responded enthusiastically, providing the poles for the stations, while JPG supplied the weatherproof dispensers.
The stations will be restocked regularly, as needed.
Ms Michiels, an animal activist who has lived in Bahrain on and off for more than two decades, said there are plans to expand the project to other areas across the country, although this will take time.
She also expressed hope for the development of a dedicated dog park in Amwaj Islands, noting the availability of open spaces.
“Discussions have already begun, with Amwaj authorities requesting details on requirements for a safe and low-maintenance park,” she said, noting that her company has indicated its willingness to help maintain such a facility.
“Nothing has been agreed upon or finalised yet, but we hope to build on these ideas in the future and make the kingdom a more pet-friendly place,” she added.
Amwaj Islands Central Owners Association manager Hamed Dhaif said the initiative reflects the association’s commitment to strengthening community partnerships that enhance the quality of life across the island.
“We sincerely appreciate the support provided by JPG and encourage all pet owners to utilise available facilities and comply with the established guidelines to help maintain the island’s high standards,” he said.
According to the association, residents who fail to clean up after their pets could face hefty fines.
JPG was established in 2012 after its founder, Ms Michiels, faced major challenges relocating her family dog, Belle, back to Bahrain. What should have been a straightforward move from Thailand turned into a complex process, as the dog was initially banned due to its country of origin. After six months and a lengthy legal procedure, Belle was finally reunited with the family. Ms Michiels said the experience revealed a lack of knowledge and professional pet relocation support in Bahrain.
Recognising this gap, she founded JPG to ‘provide a trusted, personalised service for pet owners’ – something beyond what traditional kennels or clearing agents could offer.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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