Dog lovers of the UAE are coming together to celebrate man’s best friend at the Waggielympics on Yas Island
Prepare for an overload of cuteness as the Waggielympics – a dog competition and pet show – arrives at du Forum, Yas Island on 13th February. Dog lovers will show off their pet’s skills in a day full of competitions and shows, and you can take part too.
The event is organised by Waggie Box, a Dubai-based company that delivers boxes of treats, toys, health supplements, accessories and vouchers for vets and grooming salons to pet owners in the UAE.
The Waggielympics features a line-up of exciting events including an internationally-recognised agility competition sponsored by the pet food company Royal Canin, speed races, beauty and obedience awards, a look-a-like competition for dog and owner, a canine fashion show and a prize for the ‘waggiest’ tail.
Stalls from local pet companies will sell pet products while dog experts will be on hand to share health and training tips.
It’s a dog’s life
Such a large-scale event proves that the capital is committed to its furry friends.
Neil Anderson, a British certified master dog trainer at the UAE-based training and pet services company Homely Petz, tells us that despite what people may think, dogs are popular pets in the UAE. But it’s important to recognise that some people may not share your compassion for canines.
“To respect the local culture, make sure that your pet is trained not to approach people unless invited, and to come back when called.”
Thinking of getting a canine companion?
“Dogs enjoy human contact so if you want to adopt one, you need to have enough time in your day to walk them and sufficient space in your home,” adds Anderson. “Some people think a small dog is easier, but they run around more and need more space.
“Apart from food costs, you have to know your dog’s medical needs. As a rule of thumb, you should always have at least AED 3,000 in the bank for an emergency. One night at the vet can cost AED 1,500. I have great Danes and their operations can cost up to AED 16,000.
“The challenges of having a dog in the UAE are breed specific, another reason to know your dog well. Short-nosed breeds such as bulldogs struggle in the heat because air does not flow easily in their nose.
“Outdoor exercise is important for a dog’s physical and psychological wellbeing, but you need to monitor its condition to avoid heatstroke. This could mean buying dog boots so it does not burn its paws or doing many short outings instead of a long one. Always carry water, and remember that it’s as hot in the shade as it is in the sun, so don’t leave your dog in the garden without access to air conditioning.”
Show off your pet
Want to take part in Waggielympics? You can register your dog in advance or on the day. Adult early bird tickets are available online for AED 15, children AED 10, family AED 40. Adult tickets on the door cost AED 20, children AED 15, family AED 50. Competition fees from AED 15 to AED 30.
Waggie Box supports shelters and charities around the UAE by donating a portion of profits to help rehome stray dogs. Six per cent of profits from the Waggielympics tickets’ sales will be donated to the cause.
Daily 9am-9pm. For more information contact: 04 423 1070
www.waggieevents.com
Three to try: places to train your doggie
Homely Petz
050 871 7072 [email protected] www.homelypetz.com
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
02 575 5155 [email protected] www.falconhospital.com
British Veterinary Centre
02 665 0085 [email protected] www.britvet.com/training
Help a hound
In such a transient city, many dogs are left behind when their owners move. Help the capital’s orphaned dogs by volunteering at Bahya Sanctuary in Al Bahya, off E10 (www.facebook.com/BahyaSanctuary) or foster a dog through Animal Action – Abu Dhabi (www.facebook.com/AnimalActionAbuDhabi), a charity organisation that rescues and rehomes dogs around the UAE. Ready to adopt? Visit www.adopt-me.ae for dozens of pets looking for a family of their own.
