One of the kingdom’s most prominent campaigners has urged people to avoid interacting and sharing social media posts that depict animal abuse and to simply report them to the authorities.
Cat Society of Bahrain and Pet Animals (CSBPA) president Dr Hana Kanoo is warning online users against the growing misuse of pets and strays for content, social media engagement and views.
Dr Kanoo described such practices as a serious moral offence that contradicts basic human values and the principles of compassion towards animals.
She urged members of the public not to engage with or share videos that show animals being harmed, frightened or exploited, stressing that wider circulation only encourages further irresponsible behaviour.
Instead, she called on the community to report any concerns through the official channels and relevant authorities.
Referring to a recent video which showed someone abusing a black cat and throwing it at a vehicle for views, Dr Kanoo extended her appreciation to the Public Prosecution, the authorities, and the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry for their swift response.
“It reflects the commitment of official institutions in Bahrain to enforcing the law and protecting the humanitarian and civilised values of our society,” she said.
She also thanked Bahrain Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BSPCA) president Mahmood Faraj for taking up the case and following up on it closely.
“The BSPCA plays an important role in supporting protection efforts and promoting public awareness of animal welfare,” Dr Kanoo added.
She emphasised that co-ordination between the authorities, government agencies, civil societies and volunteers remains essential to confronting harmful practices and strengthening a culture of compassion.
Dr Kanoo explained that CSBPA had ‘deep concern’ over the circulation of content that shows animals being deliberately frightened, provoked or harmed for entertainment and online attention.
“It is unacceptable for animals to be turned into tools for entertainment or used to chase online trends,” she added. “The danger of this phenomenon extends beyond the harm caused to animals.
“It has a negative impact on society, particularly on children and youth, who may be influenced by such content and begin to view it as normal behaviour or an acceptable route to entertainment and popularity.
“The respect for animals is a civilised standard that reflects the ethics and progress of any society.
“Bahrain has long been known for its humanitarian values and strong sense of community, which requires everyone to take a firm stance against any practice that harms animals or exploits them for media attention or temporary fame.”
Dr Kanoo believes animal welfare remains a shared moral and social responsibility.
The GDN reported last week that a man was arrested for alleged animal abuse following a complaint filed by a leading animal welfare advocate after a disturbing video circulated widely online and on social media.
The recording showed a small black cat being picked up by the scruff of the neck and forcefully thrown against a parked vehicle, sparking widespread condemnation.
The stunned cat involved in the incident scarpered the scene after bouncing on to the floor. Its condition is unknown.
As part of wider efforts to combat animal abuse, the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry has launched a dedicated hotline allowing the public to report cases of animal mistreatment and neglect.
The hotline, 17987227, operates from Sunday to Thursday between 7am and 2pm.
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