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Animal database to help track owners of lost pets

DUBAI — Residents who come across a lost pet would now be able to get in touch with its owner directly through the Middle East's first online animal database — Aniworldbase.

The web site, which registers the details of micro-chipped animals, was launched by its developers, NMC Veterinary Division, at an event last Thursday.

Government officials, veterinarians and animal welfare groups have welcomed the initiative which would also help resolve the situation of abandoned pets in the country.

Animal welfare groups, including K9 Friends and Feline Friends, have reported many cases of pets being abandoned by their owners, or simply lost.

The database would help in tracking down the owners of lost or abandoned pets, according to the NMC Veterinary Division Business Unit Manager, Dr Vikram Sharma.

"This is common in places like Europe, but it has been missing in the Middle East," he said.

Dr Sharma encouraged pet owners to approach their veterinarian to have a microchip, the size of a grain of rice, implanted in their pets.

The municipality or a rescue organisation would then be able to scan the microchip and check its details online.

Dr. Sharma said the municipalities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are supportive of the initiative.

He said the web site had the potential to grow and provide many services, possibly social networking capabilities.

zoe@khaleejtimes.com