Adoption drive for disabled and elderly 'underdogs' to be held in Dubai

The Howl-ween Adoption Day for the Underdogs on Thursday gives unloved disabled and elderly dogs a chance at finding a family

Waseem, a Swiss Shepherd, was found abandoned in Ajman with burns on his elblows from the hot asphalt. Courtesy Shepherd Rescue Arabia

Zaatar is a Saluki who is good with children and cats, but is shy. Courtesy Saluki Rescue Arabia

Blaze, a Labrador retriever with dwarfism, will be up for adoption on Thursday. Courtesy Animal Action

Animal adoption groups are giving underdogs a chance this Thursday at an Dubai adoption event for disabled, elderly and unloved dogs.

The event is for dogs that have struggled to get adopted, often overlooked by prospective owners in favour of younger, fluffier and more conventionally attractive dogs.

Howl-ween Adoption Day for the Underdogs take place at Fetch Daycare and Boarding in Al Quoz from 10am to 12pm on October 25.

Every dog should have its day, said Kate Lindley, the owner of Pet Pals and the event’s co-organiser.

“These dogs get overlooked,” said Ms Lindley. “They’re not cute, they’re not fluffy, they’re not young. They’ve got issues. They have dwarfish, or can’t use a leg. These are the dogs that really need a home.”

Some dogs spend years in shelters without finding a permanent home.

Dogs from Shepherd Rescue Arabia, 38 Smiles, Animal Action UAE, Stay Dogs Centre UAQ and Little Angels will be available for adoption.

Visitors can meet Blaze, a Labrador retriever with dwarfism, and Zaatar, a six year Saluki rescued in August who is good with children and cats, despite her shy nature.

There is also Waseem, an abandoned seven-year-old Swiss Shepherd, who was found in Ajman in July with burns on his elbows from resting on hot asphalt.

Dogs adopted at the event will receive five free dog walks and an introductory consultation from Paw Pals, a free consultation from Petiquette, a pet training company, and one free day care and grooming session from Fetch Dubai.