Overview
- France’s Agriculture Ministry introduced a derogation through April 30 allowing dogs and cats from specified Middle East countries, including the UAE, to enter even if they lack all standard pre-travel health requirements.
- Owners must pre-designate a French veterinarian, seek prompt post-arrival checks, and register with their local DDPP, with embassies guiding travelers on the steps.
- Shelters in Dubai, including K9 Friends, report being overwhelmed by surrender calls, while British outlets say some owners booked euthanasia for healthy animals.
- Images circulating online show dogs tied near bins and cats left in boxes, as relocation hurdles such as rabies-vaccine waits and antibody titer timelines are cited by advocates and clinics.
- Influencers Maddy Burciaga and Sarah Lopez were accused on social media of leaving pets; both denied wrongdoing and signaled legal action, as groups decry lax on-the-ground enforcement despite UAE penalties for abandonment.