Got a pet you can’t look after any more? Maybe you’re leaving Kuwait, maybe the puppy grew into more dog than you bargained for. Whatever the reason, the Ministry of Interior has a clear message: don’t just let it loose on the street.
The ministry has reminded owners this week that abandoning animals in public places is against the law, and it’s laid out exactly who to call instead.
It’s a small announcement, but one worth keeping in mind if you’ve ever seen a dog wandering near your building and weren’t sure what to do about it.
The short version
- The Ministry of Interior says abandoning pets or animals in public places is prohibited under Kuwaiti law.
- Owners who can’t care for their animals any more should call 112, not release them onto the street.
- If you spot a stray dog, keep your distance and don’t approach it.
- Report the exact location to 112 so the competent authorities can respond.
What the ministry actually said
The Ministry of Interior said animal owners must comply with the laws and regulations covering the possession and care of animals. Abandoning an animal in a public place is not allowed, full stop. If someone genuinely can’t continue caring for a pet, the ministry says they should contact the emergency number 112 to arrange for the animal to be handled or received by the relevant authorities.
The same advice applies if you come across a stray dog wandering in your neighbourhood. The ministry asked people to avoid approaching the animal and instead give 112 the precise location, so that officials can coordinate a response with the competent authorities.
The ministry framed all of this as a matter of public safety, and of making sure animals are dealt with through proper official channels rather than left to fend for themselves.
Who this affects
This applies to anyone in Kuwait who owns a pet, citizen or expat, and to anyone who happens to come across a stray dog while out and about. If you’re moving abroad and can’t take your pet with you, this is the official route the ministry wants you to use rather than leaving it behind.
Kuwait’s stray dog problem has been a long-running issue, and enforcement has often lagged behind the laws on the books. This latest reminder from the ministry suggests it’s still very much on their radar.
Quick answers
What number do I call if I can’t keep my pet?
The Ministry of Interior says to call 112, the emergency number, and coordinate with the relevant authorities from there.
What should I do if I see a stray dog near my home?
Keep a safe distance, don’t try to approach or handle the dog yourself, and call 112 with the exact location so officials can respond.
If you’ve ever had to deal with a stray or a pet you couldn’t keep, it’s worth knowing this number now rather than figuring it out in the moment.
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