Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
In an exclusive interview with Aletihad, animal health experts highlighted a rising demand for preventive and advanced veterinary care. This trend aligns with the steady increase in pet ownership across the UAE, fuelled by a growing expatriate population and higher disposable incomes."There is a growing awareness of the importance of preventive pet care which is being reflected in the increased demand for preventive health measures like vaccinations and pet parasiticides which protect animals from fleas, ticks, mites, lice, heartworm and intestinal worms," said Dr. Michelle Enslin, Regional Product Manager for Pets at Boehringer Ingelheim in the India, Middle East, Turkey and Africa (IMETA) region.
Increased preventive pet care measures and the growing awareness of the importance of animal wellbeing have resulted in a longer life expectancy for pets.
"As pet owners become more proactive in caring for their animals, the pet healthcare landscape is evolving, with longer lifespans contributing to a surge in chronic health conditions," said Waleed ElMashak, Head of Animal Health at Boehringer Ingelheim in IMETA. "As a result, smart technology is gaining traction in pet care, helping owners care for, monitor, and interact with their pets remotely."
Taking a Proactive Approach
While providing proper nutrition, maintaining hygiene, scheduling routine check-ups, and keeping up with vaccinations may seem expensive upfront, the experts stress that they often lead to lower long-term costs by minimising the risk of serious health problems that require costly treatments.
Dr. Enslin also noted the importance of hydration and pet parasiticides, especially in the UAE, where the arid climate can increase pets' vulnerability to serious health risks such as heat stroke and parasitic infections. This is also true for indoor pets, despite the common misconception that pets kept indoors are not prone to parasite infections.
ElMashak added that regular exercise and diet management are also crucial to avoid obesity from sedentary lifestyles, which can lead to diabetes and joint issues. He advises pet owners to consult vets for vaccinations that can help imported breeds thrive in their new environment.
The Future of the UAE Pet Care Industry
"New treatment options and enhanced veterinary care will need to reflect the longer life expectancy of pets to address the more complex healthcare needs. Technologies such as wearable activity trackers are increasingly being used in pet healthcare, enabling faster diagnosis and treatment," said ElMashak.
He added that strategic collaborations between veterinarians and animal pharmaceutical companies will ensure that products are developed in line with market needs, while collaborations with regulators can help ensure pets receive the care they need.
Reflecting on the rise in pet ownership and the increased willingness to invest in pet health, Dr. Enslin said: "Demand is rising for advanced pet treatments like orthopaedic surgeries and dermatological services, as well as tailored nutrition plans."
Furthermore, the broad network of veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and specialised care centers equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology is expected to expand further, with more facilities introducing mobile and virtual veterinary services to improve access to professional pet care.
