Sharjah Municipality has warned residents against abandoning pets after multiple cases were reported near the emirate’s Birds and Animal Market.

The authority said on Monday that such actions violate existing regulations and contradict the principles of responsible and compassionate treatment of animals.

Residents who can no longer care for their pets were urged to contact the municipality’s call centre on 993 to enquire about surrendering them and available capacity at the Sharjah Cat and Dog Shelter.

Alongside the warning, the municipality released a video showing a boy leaving an animal in a cage outside a shop at the Birds and Animal Market.

Sharjah Municipality said requests to surrender animals are assessed according to shelter capacity. Applicants will be contacted when space becomes available to determine whether the animal can be admitted.

The authority stressed the importance of responsible pet ownership, including providing appropriate medical care, adequate food and a safe environment, as well as complying with relevant laws and regulations.

In Dubai, the municipality opened a fully equipped shelter at the Warsan Birds and Pet Market in July, providing abandoned animals with a safe environment, necessary care and, where possible, new homes.

Dubai Municipality also operates a shelter in Al Khawaneej that cares for dogs and facilitates their adoption and fostering. The animals receive veterinary care before being placed with suitable families.

Abu Dhabi has also introduced new animal protection regulations. Under the rules, owners of microchipped dogs and cats must register their animals on the TAMM platform, with non-compliance potentially resulting in fines.

The system is intended to reduce the number of stray animals, maintain pet records, facilitate identification and improve animal welfare.

In 2023, Abu Dhabi authorities also launched an investigation after videos emerged showing several cats being abandoned in the desert.

Under UAE law, animal abuse, mistreatment or neglect can result in criminal penalties or fines.

Article 472 of the UAE Crimes and Penalties Law states that anyone who harms or tortures a domesticated animal, or fails to care for an animal under their responsibility, may be fined up to Dh5,000.

Under Article 471, intentionally killing or poisoning a domesticated or tame animal without justification can result in imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to Dh10,000.

Article 473 provides for a fine of up to Dh3,000 for negligently injuring an animal belonging to another person. If the animal dies, the fine may rise to Dh10,000.

In addition, Federal Law No. 16 of 2007 on protecting animals from abuse and neglect prohibits the use of animals in scientific experiments without official authorisation. Violations can result in fines ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh200,000, or imprisonment for up to one year.

The UAE Federal Public Prosecution has also previously warned that selling sick or injured animals can result in fines of up to Dh200,000.