Kuwait Bans Commercial Pet Imports Amid Stray Surge

Kuwait has introduced a new regulation that stops the commercial import of dogs and cats, marking a significant shift in how the country manages pets and stray animals. The Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR) confirmed that businesses, including pet shops and breeders, can no longer bring dogs or cats into the country for trading purposes. The rule comes in response to rising concerns over the increasing number of stray animals appearing in neighbourhoods.

Under the updated policy, Kuwaiti citizens may still bring in one dog each year, provided it is strictly for personal ownership and not for resale. Authorities say this limited allowance will help prevent misuse of permits, discourage irresponsible trading, and reduce the number of pets that eventually end up abandoned.

The import ban is part of a wider government initiative designed to bring the stray population under control. As part of this plan, PAAAFR teams continue to capture stray dogs, offer medical care, and carry out sterilisation procedures to prevent further breeding. Many of the healthy animals are later placed into adoption programmes. A dedicated hotline and WhatsApp reporting service have also been launched to help residents alert authorities quickly when stray animals are spotted.

To support these ongoing efforts, Kuwait is planning to establish a large, purpose-built shelter away from residential districts. The facility is expected to include veterinary services, sterilisation units, and areas for rehabilitation and adoption, helping to create a more organised process for managing stray dogs and cats.

In parallel, the Kuwait Lawyers Association has formed a special committee focused on strengthening animal welfare standards in the country. The group aims to work closely with the government bodies to update existing laws and introduce new regulations that ensure humane treatment of animals.

Officials believe the commercial import ban will ease pressure on public spaces, improve community safety, and encourage local adoption rather than reliance on imported pets. They also say the policy will help bring more structure and responsibility to pet ownership across Kuwait.

With these changes, Kuwait is moving toward a more regulated and welfare-driven approach to handling pets and stray animals. Authorities expect the combination of stricter import rules, expanded shelter services, and new legal support to gradually reduce the number of stray animals and create a safer environment for both residents and pets.