RIYADH: Saudi Arabia unveiled an ambitious plan to improve animal welfare at this year’s Saudi Pet & Vet Expo in Riyadh.
The initiative, known as the Executive Plan for Animal Welfare 2026-30, was announced by Bader Mohammed Alshaer, manager of the government’s animal welfare department.
It aims to strengthen animal protection through five pillars: public awareness, laws and regulations, veterinary healthcare, improved services, and cooperation between government bodies, private companies, nonprofit organizations and volunteers.
The exhibition, held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center under the patronage of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, brought together animal welfare advocates, veterinary specialists, businesses and pet enthusiasts.
As well as providing a showcase for the latest veterinary and pet care products, it also provided a platform for animal welfare advocates to raise concerns about abandonment, uncontrolled breeding and the challenges of providing adequate shelter for stray animals.
Among them was Nouf Al-Mandeel, co-founder of the rescue shelter, Happy Paws.
“We are a shelter that was founded in 2020. We have saved 150 cats and 100 dogs and it’s ongoing,” she told Arab News.
The organization offers adoption opportunities, volunteering initiatives and sponsorship programs that allow members of the public to support rescued animals.
