A Guide for Prospective Owners of Saluki/Saluki Mix from the Middle East
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 1
A Guide for Prospective Owners of Saluki/Saluki Mix from the Middle East
This guide is for anyone who is considering adopting a rescue saluki or
saluki-mix from the Middle East.
Be informed. Read this before you say “Yes! We want to adopt!”
What is it like for a saluki/saluki mix living in the Middle East?
Although there are some variations across the region, basically it’s
extremely hot for 5 months of the year with temperatures topping 45C
during the day and dipping to 30C at night. Add to this high humidity
and it can be life threatening for a dog out in the desert without
adequate water and shade. In cities tarmac becomes scorching during the day making dog walking impractical.
November to May temperatures range 15C to 25C and life for dogs (and owners) is more comfortable
– with some even needing coats! The landscape is almost entirely sand or rock, with a few areas of mangrove.
Public and private gardens are the only places where there may be grass.
It is also important to know that:
· In parts of the ME, for example the UAE, there are strict “dogs on lead” policies. In other countries, such as
Qatar, dogs are allowed to run free on some public beaches, in the desert and around mangrove areas providing
they are not deemed a nuisance or worrisome to the public.
· In general, dogs are not allowed in public parks and reactions to owners walking their dogs in public areas (such
as shopping precincts) will vary from indifference to fear; some people will shout and scream at a dog and its
owner while others will want to meet, greet and even take photographs. Dogs are never allowed in shops
and cafes.
· It is a challenge to find a taxi that will take even a small dog. Bus rides are not an option and trains do not exist
(except in Dubai).
· As reactions are unpredictable, dog owners err on the side of caution and will avoid situations where there may
be large groups of people, unpredictable reactions or “hostile” behaviour towards dogs. In some cases, local
children are brought up to fear dogs, in part for religious reasons but more likely due to lack of exposure to and
education about dogs.
Taken together, this means that it may be a challenge to exercise and socialise a dog properly.
Happily in Qatar many local Arab people are animal lovers. Indeed, some have taken the lead and promote dog
(and cat) rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming, for example Parkview Pet Centre and its sister organization
2nd Chance Rescue.
These organizations work in partnership with other expatriate groups such as Dogs in Doha, Rescue Saluki Middle
East and the Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) to improve the lives of abandoned animals and begin to reform
practice and behaviours in general. The Qatar Department of Animal Resources is taking a lead in this respect.
The majority of veterinary centers also support animal rescue.
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 2
What typically happens to abandoned salukis?
Formerly salukis played an important role in supporting the nomadic life style of the peoples of the Middle East,
many were used as hunting animals or were trained for racing and lived happily alongside Arab families. Today,
while their use for hunting and in racing has declined, salukis are still a highly revered and respected breed. Local
breeders have achieved world-renown status for the quality and characteristics of their animals. Many local
people adore their salukis and are full of praise for their gentle nature, ideally suited as a family pet. As is the case
worldwide, the countries of the Middle East are not without their share of animal abuse. This can range from
relatively minor incidents of mishandling and ignorance about a dog’s health care needs to incidents of purposeful
harm and cruelty. Thankfully awareness about this issue is increasing. Sadly many salukis are abandoned, both by
local owners and members of the expatriate community (when they leave the country), peaking during the
summer months and at times of religious festivals.
Prior to their rescue, many salukis and saluki mixes will have
· lived outside all their life on a farm or in a yard
· been fed human food scraps
· not been socialised with people or other dogs
· not experienced ‘life’ (car rides, shopping excursions, parks etc.)
· not received routine health care (vaccinations, deworming etc.)
· not been trained on a lead or in a crate (and/or have a negative experience of both)
· been on the street for a day, a week, a month or more….
They may also
· have had things thrown at them
· have been trained to run behind a car (for race training/exercise)
· have a fear of cars (because they were thrown out of one)
· been shouted at and/or hurt in some way (by adults and/or children)
· not be house trained and/or punished for toileting in the wrong place
· have been locked up for long periods
· have been used for breeding from a young age and for many litters
· suffer separation anxiety due to abandonment
· have fought for survival in an extremely harsh environment
· have the body of an adult but the mind of an inexperienced puppy
Despite all this, it is a testament to the nature of the breed that the majority of salukis rescued in Qatar have not
lost their gentle, trusting and loving nature.Yes, they may need some training and rehabilitation but given time
and patience all but the severely traumatised will become loving family pets.
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 3
What health issues could rescue salukis from the Middle East be exposed to?
Malnutrition – leading to delayed growth, poor dental health, poor skin and coat condition. Usually corrected
with proper nutrition and exercise.
Ehrlichiosis (Tick Fever) – ticks are prevalent in some areas, particularly where camel manure is used as a
fertiliser. If tick fever is suspected, the dog will be tested and treated before adoption. All rescued dogs are
Front-lined on a monthly basis.
Giardia– young dogs are particularly susceptible to this disease. It is relatively easy to treat with medication and
a balanced intestinal specific diet. If the dog exhibits symptoms of Giardia it will be tested and treated
before adoption.
Distemper – Cases of distemper have been seen in young and adult dogs. Proper vaccination is the best line of
defence against this disease.
Parvo – due to a lack of routine vaccination of puppies, this disease is prevalent in Qatar and elsewhere in the
Middle East. Puppies which test positive for this disease are humanely euthanized.
Rabies – parts of the Middle East have rabies. All dogs heading to the EU are given a Rabies Antibody Test (a legal
requirement). This process can take 4-5 months depending on the age of the dog and vaccinations required.
Leishmaniasis – this disease is not found in Qatar.
Vets report that if there were to be a case it would most likely originate from an imported animal and be an
isolated case.
Intestinal worms – all dogs are de-wormed initially according to a schedule recommended by local vets.
Thereafter they are treated at 3-4 monthly intervals.
Screw Worm–dogs destined for the USA will be checked for screw worm and a certificate provided.
Kennel Cough – all dogs boarded or fostered in Qatar in multi-dog environments are routinely given the Kennel
Cough vaccination.
Ear mites - infestations are common in rescue dogs. All dogs are checked and treated for ear mites.
Fleas – generally not seen in the Middle East
Skin Complaints - as in other locations, dogs experience skin complaints (mange, ringworm etc.). All rescue
dogs are checked and treated for skin issues BEFORE they are fostered/adopted. Skin complaints due to the
extreme climate are atypical in salukis as they have been breed to deal with the hot and dry conditions.
Injury – physical injury (either deliberate or accidental). All rescue dogs receive appropriate medical
treatment details of which will be disclosed to adopting families.
Mental health/behavioral issues – all dogs are assessed for behavior and temperament BEFORE being put up
for adopting. Where possible rehabilitation work will take place before rehoming.
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 4
What happens once a saluki is rescued?
· All rescues are taken to a place of safety – generally the rescuers home or veterinary facility.
· A health check is performed as soon as possible and treatment for life threatening illness and injury given.
· Rescues are professionally groomed if necessary.
· All rescues are checked for microchips and if present cross-checked with relevant data bases
NOTE: Dogs with or without microchips are not available for adoption for a minimum of 10 days. This period will
be extended to up to 1 month if the dog is found during a holiday period, or appears to be a family pet (escapee!)
and in good condition.
· All rescues are vaccinated, de-wormed and Front-lined as appropriate.
· If the dog’s owner is not found the rescue will be micro-chipped and prepared for adoption.
· All rescues are transferred to a suitable foster family when available. Kennelling may be used temporarily if no
foster family is identified.
· All rescue dogs are assessed (temperament and behavior) to determine their suitability for adoption and the
kind of home environment they will thrive in (e.g. with or without children). A training/rehabilitation plan is
developed where necessary.
· Dogs going to EUROPE will be RATT tested. This process takes up to 5 months.
· ALL dogs are spayed/castrated before adoption– except in exceptional circumstances where the health of the
dog is compromised.
What should adopting families expect?
So you still want to adopt a rescue saluki/saluki mix? What happens next?
· Select your dog! Check Dogs in Doha Facebook page and website www.dogsindoha.weebly.com and Rescue Saluki
Middle East Facebook page for information about dogs available for adoption.
From these pages there are also links to other rescue organisations in Qatar, such as Qatar Animal Welfare Society
and 2nd Chance, and groups in other parts of the region. New dogs are rescued almost daily so be sure to
check often.
· Don’t delay! Dogs in Doha dogs are in great demand. Send a private message to us either on Facebook or to
dogsindoha@gmail.com with your name and contact details and the name(s) of the dog(s) you are interested in.
· Complete an Adoption Application form. This must be returned to Dogs in Doha BEFORE you will be considered
as a potential adopter.
· Prepare for you interview!You will be contacted by e-mail and/or phone and a home visit will be arranged
(where possible). NOTE: Dogs in Doha is a non-profit organisation. All adopters will be asked to pay an
administration fee at handover (to cover the cost of vaccinations, spaying/castration etc. Donations above this
amount are entirely at the discretion of the adopter).
· Celebrate! If your family and your chosen saluki/saluki mix are a PERFECT match then the dog will be RESERVED
for you.
· Prepare for your new arrival! Depending on the age, vaccination and documentation status of the dog you would
like to adopt, you may have to wait up to 5 months before he/she is ready to be shipped.
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 5
Use this time to buy the things your new family member will need, ask as many questions as you like, read about
the breed, seek advice from trainers and veterinary services, follow us on Facebook for updates about your dog.
· Having second thoughts?That’s OK. We understand that circumstances change but PLEASE let Dogs in Doha know
as soon as possible so that the dog can be put back up for adoption
· Meet and greet your new arrival at the airport! Most dogs headed for Europe come as excess baggage on KLM
through Amsterdam, those going to the USA arrive in Houston, for Canada they are flown to Toronto or
Montreal. You will be met by a Dogs in Doha/RSME representative and the adoption finalized.
· Take you dog home and enjoy a lifelong friendship! But remember you’re not on your own; Dogs in Doha will be
delighted to help you introduce your new dog to your family and advise you on any problems.
· Send us pictures! We’d love to hear how you’re getting on with your new dog. Please send photographs and
updates to dogsindoha@gmail.com or post on our Facebook pages. Success stories help us to find other salukis
and saluki mixes forever homes ! If after reading this you’ve decided adopting a dog from the Middle East is not
for you right now, perhaps you would like to help us in other ways? For example, fundraising, publicity, short
term, meet and greet at the airport, fostering and/or adoptive family support. Please send an e-mail to
rescuesalukisme@gmail.com or dogsindoha@gmail.com stating how you’d like help and how you can
be contacted.
Thank you!
A Guide for Prospective Owners of Saluki/Saluki Mix from the Middle East
This guide is for anyone who is considering adopting a rescue saluki or
saluki-mix from the Middle East.
Be informed. Read this before you say “Yes! We want to adopt!”
What is it like for a saluki/saluki mix living in the Middle East?
Although there are some variations across the region, basically it’s
extremely hot for 5 months of the year with temperatures topping 45C
during the day and dipping to 30C at night. Add to this high humidity
and it can be life threatening for a dog out in the desert without
adequate water and shade. In cities tarmac becomes scorching during the day making dog walking impractical.
November to May temperatures range 15C to 25C and life for dogs (and owners) is more comfortable
– with some even needing coats! The landscape is almost entirely sand or rock, with a few areas of mangrove.
Public and private gardens are the only places where there may be grass.
It is also important to know that:
· In parts of the ME, for example the UAE, there are strict “dogs on lead” policies. In other countries, such as
Qatar, dogs are allowed to run free on some public beaches, in the desert and around mangrove areas providing
they are not deemed a nuisance or worrisome to the public.
· In general, dogs are not allowed in public parks and reactions to owners walking their dogs in public areas (such
as shopping precincts) will vary from indifference to fear; some people will shout and scream at a dog and its
owner while others will want to meet, greet and even take photographs. Dogs are never allowed in shops
and cafes.
· It is a challenge to find a taxi that will take even a small dog. Bus rides are not an option and trains do not exist
(except in Dubai).
· As reactions are unpredictable, dog owners err on the side of caution and will avoid situations where there may
be large groups of people, unpredictable reactions or “hostile” behaviour towards dogs. In some cases, local
children are brought up to fear dogs, in part for religious reasons but more likely due to lack of exposure to and
education about dogs.
Taken together, this means that it may be a challenge to exercise and socialise a dog properly.
Happily in Qatar many local Arab people are animal lovers. Indeed, some have taken the lead and promote dog
(and cat) rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming, for example Parkview Pet Centre and its sister organization
2nd Chance Rescue.
These organizations work in partnership with other expatriate groups such as Dogs in Doha, Rescue Saluki Middle
East and the Qatar Animal Welfare Society (QAWS) to improve the lives of abandoned animals and begin to reform
practice and behaviours in general. The Qatar Department of Animal Resources is taking a lead in this respect.
The majority of veterinary centers also support animal rescue.
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 2
What typically happens to abandoned salukis?
Formerly salukis played an important role in supporting the nomadic life style of the peoples of the Middle East,
many were used as hunting animals or were trained for racing and lived happily alongside Arab families. Today,
while their use for hunting and in racing has declined, salukis are still a highly revered and respected breed. Local
breeders have achieved world-renown status for the quality and characteristics of their animals. Many local
people adore their salukis and are full of praise for their gentle nature, ideally suited as a family pet. As is the case
worldwide, the countries of the Middle East are not without their share of animal abuse. This can range from
relatively minor incidents of mishandling and ignorance about a dog’s health care needs to incidents of purposeful
harm and cruelty. Thankfully awareness about this issue is increasing. Sadly many salukis are abandoned, both by
local owners and members of the expatriate community (when they leave the country), peaking during the
summer months and at times of religious festivals.
Prior to their rescue, many salukis and saluki mixes will have
· lived outside all their life on a farm or in a yard
· been fed human food scraps
· not been socialised with people or other dogs
· not experienced ‘life’ (car rides, shopping excursions, parks etc.)
· not received routine health care (vaccinations, deworming etc.)
· not been trained on a lead or in a crate (and/or have a negative experience of both)
· been on the street for a day, a week, a month or more….
They may also
· have had things thrown at them
· have been trained to run behind a car (for race training/exercise)
· have a fear of cars (because they were thrown out of one)
· been shouted at and/or hurt in some way (by adults and/or children)
· not be house trained and/or punished for toileting in the wrong place
· have been locked up for long periods
· have been used for breeding from a young age and for many litters
· suffer separation anxiety due to abandonment
· have fought for survival in an extremely harsh environment
· have the body of an adult but the mind of an inexperienced puppy
Despite all this, it is a testament to the nature of the breed that the majority of salukis rescued in Qatar have not
lost their gentle, trusting and loving nature.Yes, they may need some training and rehabilitation but given time
and patience all but the severely traumatised will become loving family pets.
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 3
What health issues could rescue salukis from the Middle East be exposed to?
Malnutrition – leading to delayed growth, poor dental health, poor skin and coat condition. Usually corrected
with proper nutrition and exercise.
Ehrlichiosis (Tick Fever) – ticks are prevalent in some areas, particularly where camel manure is used as a
fertiliser. If tick fever is suspected, the dog will be tested and treated before adoption. All rescued dogs are
Front-lined on a monthly basis.
Giardia– young dogs are particularly susceptible to this disease. It is relatively easy to treat with medication and
a balanced intestinal specific diet. If the dog exhibits symptoms of Giardia it will be tested and treated
before adoption.
Distemper – Cases of distemper have been seen in young and adult dogs. Proper vaccination is the best line of
defence against this disease.
Parvo – due to a lack of routine vaccination of puppies, this disease is prevalent in Qatar and elsewhere in the
Middle East. Puppies which test positive for this disease are humanely euthanized.
Rabies – parts of the Middle East have rabies. All dogs heading to the EU are given a Rabies Antibody Test (a legal
requirement). This process can take 4-5 months depending on the age of the dog and vaccinations required.
Leishmaniasis – this disease is not found in Qatar.
Vets report that if there were to be a case it would most likely originate from an imported animal and be an
isolated case.
Intestinal worms – all dogs are de-wormed initially according to a schedule recommended by local vets.
Thereafter they are treated at 3-4 monthly intervals.
Screw Worm–dogs destined for the USA will be checked for screw worm and a certificate provided.
Kennel Cough – all dogs boarded or fostered in Qatar in multi-dog environments are routinely given the Kennel
Cough vaccination.
Ear mites - infestations are common in rescue dogs. All dogs are checked and treated for ear mites.
Fleas – generally not seen in the Middle East
Skin Complaints - as in other locations, dogs experience skin complaints (mange, ringworm etc.). All rescue
dogs are checked and treated for skin issues BEFORE they are fostered/adopted. Skin complaints due to the
extreme climate are atypical in salukis as they have been breed to deal with the hot and dry conditions.
Injury – physical injury (either deliberate or accidental). All rescue dogs receive appropriate medical
treatment details of which will be disclosed to adopting families.
Mental health/behavioral issues – all dogs are assessed for behavior and temperament BEFORE being put up
for adopting. Where possible rehabilitation work will take place before rehoming.
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 4
What happens once a saluki is rescued?
· All rescues are taken to a place of safety – generally the rescuers home or veterinary facility.
· A health check is performed as soon as possible and treatment for life threatening illness and injury given.
· Rescues are professionally groomed if necessary.
· All rescues are checked for microchips and if present cross-checked with relevant data bases
NOTE: Dogs with or without microchips are not available for adoption for a minimum of 10 days. This period will
be extended to up to 1 month if the dog is found during a holiday period, or appears to be a family pet (escapee!)
and in good condition.
· All rescues are vaccinated, de-wormed and Front-lined as appropriate.
· If the dog’s owner is not found the rescue will be micro-chipped and prepared for adoption.
· All rescues are transferred to a suitable foster family when available. Kennelling may be used temporarily if no
foster family is identified.
· All rescue dogs are assessed (temperament and behavior) to determine their suitability for adoption and the
kind of home environment they will thrive in (e.g. with or without children). A training/rehabilitation plan is
developed where necessary.
· Dogs going to EUROPE will be RATT tested. This process takes up to 5 months.
· ALL dogs are spayed/castrated before adoption– except in exceptional circumstances where the health of the
dog is compromised.
What should adopting families expect?
So you still want to adopt a rescue saluki/saluki mix? What happens next?
· Select your dog! Check Dogs in Doha Facebook page and website www.dogsindoha.weebly.com and Rescue Saluki
Middle East Facebook page for information about dogs available for adoption.
From these pages there are also links to other rescue organisations in Qatar, such as Qatar Animal Welfare Society
and 2nd Chance, and groups in other parts of the region. New dogs are rescued almost daily so be sure to
check often.
· Don’t delay! Dogs in Doha dogs are in great demand. Send a private message to us either on Facebook or to
dogsindoha@gmail.com with your name and contact details and the name(s) of the dog(s) you are interested in.
· Complete an Adoption Application form. This must be returned to Dogs in Doha BEFORE you will be considered
as a potential adopter.
· Prepare for you interview!You will be contacted by e-mail and/or phone and a home visit will be arranged
(where possible). NOTE: Dogs in Doha is a non-profit organisation. All adopters will be asked to pay an
administration fee at handover (to cover the cost of vaccinations, spaying/castration etc. Donations above this
amount are entirely at the discretion of the adopter).
· Celebrate! If your family and your chosen saluki/saluki mix are a PERFECT match then the dog will be RESERVED
for you.
· Prepare for your new arrival! Depending on the age, vaccination and documentation status of the dog you would
like to adopt, you may have to wait up to 5 months before he/she is ready to be shipped.
Dogs in Doha & Rescue Saluki Middle East August 2012 part 5
Use this time to buy the things your new family member will need, ask as many questions as you like, read about
the breed, seek advice from trainers and veterinary services, follow us on Facebook for updates about your dog.
· Having second thoughts?That’s OK. We understand that circumstances change but PLEASE let Dogs in Doha know
as soon as possible so that the dog can be put back up for adoption
· Meet and greet your new arrival at the airport! Most dogs headed for Europe come as excess baggage on KLM
through Amsterdam, those going to the USA arrive in Houston, for Canada they are flown to Toronto or
Montreal. You will be met by a Dogs in Doha/RSME representative and the adoption finalized.
· Take you dog home and enjoy a lifelong friendship! But remember you’re not on your own; Dogs in Doha will be
delighted to help you introduce your new dog to your family and advise you on any problems.
· Send us pictures! We’d love to hear how you’re getting on with your new dog. Please send photographs and
updates to dogsindoha@gmail.com or post on our Facebook pages. Success stories help us to find other salukis
and saluki mixes forever homes ! If after reading this you’ve decided adopting a dog from the Middle East is not
for you right now, perhaps you would like to help us in other ways? For example, fundraising, publicity, short
term, meet and greet at the airport, fostering and/or adoptive family support. Please send an e-mail to
rescuesalukisme@gmail.com or dogsindoha@gmail.com stating how you’d like help and how you can
be contacted.
Thank you!
