In 2012 it was discovered that many stray dogs were living in the desert, coastal and urban areas of Umm Al Quwain. Further research revealed that there was no rescue group operating in the area and no established shelter. SOS Animal Rescue UAQ (SOS) was formed out of an urgent need to address the stray animal population in the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain. 

The issue escalated when information was received from members of the public that animals were being poisoned and shot. Evidence of this practice became obvious with the discovery of dogs that had died from poisoning or shooting. Sadly, dogs that were part of the feeding programme were targetted and after being shot were dumped at one of the SOS Safe Houses.

From 2013 to 2014 over 400 animals including, dogs, cats, birds and a donkey have been rescued and 240 animals have been rehomed. Currently, they have 140 healthy dogs in the shelter plus 12 special needs dogs.

However, on the morning of Thursday, 9th of October, the Municipality visited the shelter and issued a warning. Upon visiting the Municipality, SOS was told that due to complaints received they have one week to vacate the shelter which has since been extended to two weeks. 

Relocating is going to cost a lot of money which SOS does not have. Their ongoing, monthly expenses are rent - 5,000 Dirhams ($1,361); water and elecricity - 7000 Dirhams ($1,905); and caretakers salaries - 6500 Dirhams ($1,769). On top of that they have vet bills which amount to approximately 30,000 Dirhams ($8,167). 

SOS has launched a fundraiser to help them with their short term needs.

https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/dsnD9/ab/72rqI1?psid=a28f2c7744d749a5bd4c896df76a4ac0&fb_ref=share__72rqI1

However, we need to ask President Obama to petition the UAE President Nahyan to stop the relocation, support the animal rescue group, and provide funding for their operations.