Abu Dhabi: 'More than 200 cats' found abandoned in desert as authorities launch investigation
Animal rescue volunteers claim they have found more than 200 cats in the desert amid reports of pets being dumped. An investigation has been launched, but authorities do not know who is behind the incidents or why.
Thursday 5 October 2023 18:32, UK
Authorities in Abu Dhabi are investigating reports of cats being abandoned in the desert, with dozens said to have died.
Rescue groups and volunteers have shared images of pets dumped in remote parts of the al Falah desert, where temperatures have been up to 50C in recent weeks.
Described by the International Organisation for Animal Protection (OIPA) as "unimaginable and unacceptable suffering", the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) is now investigating.
"DMT immediately began investigations after receiving the report and will take all relevant administrative and legal measures available," the department said in a statement on Wednesday.
The department added "all necessary measures" are being taken to identify any individuals and just how the incidents have come about, which "contradicts civilised morals and values".
"DMT has also underscored that it values the sentiments of the public and communities and recognises the contributions of volunteers in responding to this incident."
The public is encouraged to keep sharing details with the department.
Images shared on social media appear to show cats lying still in the sand, with more than 200 found, according to volunteers, including two dogs.
Italy-based charity OIPA says volunteers - who work independently - found pets in "different stages of decomposition", with some on the sand and others just below the surface.
The volunteers recently uncovered a "horrific scene" of more than 100 cats and some dogs "cruelly dumped in the desert", the charity - which is not actively involved on the ground, but has received images from other rescuers - added.
One volunteer told Sky News they are working "round the clock" to "save as many lives as we can".
"Even now, there are still cats and perhaps dogs too in the desert who have no food, no water, no shelter… only the relentless environment," they added,
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"Animals have died enduring unimaginable and unacceptable suffering," the OIPA said.
"Another 87 cats and a dog were luckily found alive but in critical conditions. All very weak and dehydrated, they have been transferred to vet clinics for health care."
To "worsen the cruelty", the OIPA says almost all the cats volunteers found had been microchipped and neutered - some as recently as two weeks ago, as stitches were still visible.
It's not clear who dumped the cats.