Building a Pet-Inclusive Society: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change

My journey in veterinary care

As the CEO of Muscat Veterinary Center and co-owner of Muscat Grooming Center, I have a multifaceted role in veterinary care, specializing in both veterinary business leadership and animal welfare. My work spans managing veterinary services, overseeing the daily operations of both the clinic and the grooming center, and focusing on responsible pet ownership education. I am deeply committed to improving the quality of animal care and promoting the human-animal bond within Oman. In addition, I have a strong emphasis on mentoring and empowering the next generation of veterinary professionals, ensuring that they are equipped with the knowledge and compassion to further advance animal welfare in the country. My expertise extends beyond just clinical work into advocacy for stricter regulations, greater public awareness of animal welfare, and fostering positive cultural changes toward pets.

My career has been shaped by pivotal moments that allowed me to contribute to my local veterinary industry. One of the key moments was quitting my stable government job in the university, and founding Muscat Veterinary Center in 2016, which provided me with a platform to pursue my passion for animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. Additionally, the decision to co-found Muscat Grooming Center in 2023 further extended my focus on comprehensive pet care, integrating grooming services with veterinary medicine to support both physical and emotional well-being for pets. Another key moment was when I realized the importance of not just treating animals but also educating the public and veterinary students. Leading educational initiatives such as "Pawsitively Responsible" workshops has been crucial in shifting the cultural mindset in Oman about pets, especially dogs.

The Current Landscape of Pet Ownership in Oman

Oman has made significant strides in veterinary care and awareness about responsible pet ownership in recent years. However, pet ownership, especially of dogs, remains a complex issue. Historically, dogs in Oman have been viewed more as working animals than as pets. The practice of keeping dogs has often faced resistance, with the handling of dogs being dictated by cultural norms and religious teachings. As a result, the concept of dogs as household companions has been met with debate and opposition.

As a veterinary professional, I have witnessed first-hand the slow yet meaningful evolution of attitudes towards pets, particularly dogs. This shift, though challenging, presents immense potential for the future of animal welfare in Oman. In my role within the veterinary field, It is my mission to educate society on the importance of seeing pets as integral family members, not just animals. However, realizing this goal requires us to address long-standing cultural, social, and religious barriers. In this article, I showcase my perspective on these challenges, the ongoing changes, and how Oman can evolve into a more pet-inclusive society.

The Lack of Pet-Friendly Infrastructure

Despite progress in veterinary care, Oman’s infrastructure is not yet adequately designed to support a pet-inclusive society. Most public spaces, such as shopping malls, restaurants, and public beaches, ban pets altogether. Public beaches, in particular, are off-limits to dogs, and there are no designated public dog parks. Residential compounds often have strict rules prohibiting pets or placing severe limitations on their presence. These restrictions further alienate pet owners and limit their ability to integrate pets into daily life in Oman.

A lack of pet-friendly spaces means that many pet owners must keep their pets confined to their homes, unable to enjoy the outdoor experiences that are often considered an essential part of a pet's life. This lack of integration into public life can also deepen the divide between those who view pets as family members and those who still regard them as a nuisance or burden.

Overcoming Religious and Cultural Barriers

Religion plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of pets in Oman, especially dogs. The Islamic faith provides guidance on the humane treatment of animals, emphasizing kindness, compassion, and respect. While there are concerns about keeping dogs as pets due to Islamic teachings, it is essential to note that Islam advocates for mercy toward all creatures. Many hadiths emphasize the importance of treating animals with care and compassion, which can help shift the conversation about dogs away from fear and toward empathy and understanding.

Moreover, cultural perceptions of animals are not static. As Omani society modernizes and becomes more interconnected with global trends, traditional views on pets, especially dogs, are evolving. Over time, this can lead to a more inclusive and compassionate approach to pets.

The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions

One of the most significant barriers to building a pet-friendly society in Oman is the portrayal of pets in the media. Often, stray dogs are depicted negatively—showing them as aggressive or dangerous. These portrayals contribute to a distorted view of pets, especially dogs, and exacerbate fear within the community. It is important to counter these negative portrayals by promoting responsible pet ownership through positive stories. Promoting the benefits of having pets, such as the emotional support they provide and their positive impact on mental health, is essential to changing public perceptions.
 

Weak Regulations: The Challenge of Animal Import and Pet Breeding

Another critical issue that needs to be addressed is the regulation of animal importation and breeding in Oman. The current laws governing the importation of pets are insufficient. The lack of consistent monitoring of breeders, importers, and animal caregivers creates serious concerns about animal welfare. Many pets are imported without adequate health checks, and breeders sometimes operate without proper oversight, leading to poor breeding practices that harm animals.

Moreover, there is insufficient regulation regarding the living conditions of animals in homes and public spaces. I often witness firsthand how poorly some animals are treated due to a lack of understanding of their needs. Pets can experience fear, stress, and pain in much the same way humans do. It is crucial to educate Their caregivers about these realities, and ensure that regulations are in place.

The Importance of Government Policy and Strict Enforcement of Animal Welfare Laws

For Oman to become a truly pet-inclusive society, strong governmental support is essential. The Omani Animal Welfare Law, which aims to improve the treatment of animals, is a step in the right direction. However, more rigorous enforcement of this law is needed to ensure that animals are not subjected to cruelty or neglect. Additionally, local governments must take steps to make public spaces more accessible to pet owners. Pet-friendly parks, for example, must become part of urban planning to create a more inclusive environment for pets.

Empowering Stakeholders and Building Community Engagement

Collaboration between various stakeholders—veterinarians, pet owners, animal welfare organizations, and the government—is essential for fostering a pet-friendly society in Oman. Veterinarians, in particular, play a key role in educating pet owners about responsible care and offering guidance on animal welfare.

Additionally, community outreach is crucial. By engaging with the public and providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to care for pets responsibly, we can create a more compassionate society. Programs like "Pawsitive Minds," which  I have initiated, help raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by veterinary professionals, also contribute to the well-being of those who care for animals.

The role of pet-parents

Pet parents play a crucial role in this evolving landscape. They are at the forefront of driving demand for better veterinary care, pet-friendly spaces, and animal welfare improvements. As the number of pet owners increases, so does the expectation for better care and services. Pet parents in Oman are becoming more engaged in responsible pet ownership, educating themselves on the needs of their pets and seeking the best possible care. This has led to a shift in the pet care market, with more specialized veterinary clinics opening to cater to these needs. I often encourage pet owners to view their pets as family members and to seek education on how to responsibly care for them. Through workshops and community outreach, I help empower pet owners to take a proactive role in this transformation.

Building an Omani Community That Accepts Pets

To create a society that truly embraces pets, several key areas need to be addressed. First and foremost, education and awareness about responsible pet ownership must be prioritized. Moreover, the development of pet-friendly policies in public spaces is essential. Local authorities should work to create pet friendly spaces that are conducive to pet ownership, allowing pet owners to engage with their animals responsibly and safely. Additionally, promoting public health and safety measures, such as leash and muzzle laws and vaccination campaigns, can help ensure that pets and the people around them remain safe.

A Vision for the Future of Pet Ownership in Oman and beyond

As we look ahead, I am optimistic that Oman will continue to evolve into a more pet-inclusive society. The challenges we face are not insurmountable. With greater education, awareness, and collaboration among all stakeholders, we can change perceptions and policies to create a future where pets are valued members of society. Strong enforcement of animal welfare laws, the creation of pet-friendly spaces, and continued education efforts will be key to fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals. With determination and a collective commitment to change, I believe Oman can become a truly pet-inclusive society—a society where the bond between humans and animals is celebrated for generations to come.

Beyond Oman, I see veterinary care becoming increasingly holistic, with an emphasis on the emotional and psychological well-being of animals. This means integrating behavior therapy, stress management, and preventive care alongside traditional medical treatments. I also foresee a future where global collaboration among veterinary professionals leads to better standards, knowledge-sharing, and practices that elevate animal welfare worldwide.