New Pet Parent Guide: The First 30 Days with Your Dog or Cat in Abu Dhabi

Bringing a new pet home is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make — and one of the most overwhelming. Between vaccinations, microchipping, licensing, and settling your new companion into a new environment, the first 30 days can feel like a lot. This guide walks you through everything, step by step, specifically for pet owners in Abu Dhabi.

Week 1: The First Vet Visit

Your first priority — ideally within 48–72 hours of bringing your pet home — is a veterinary health check. This is true whether you have adopted a rescue, purchased from a breeder, or rehomed a pet from another family.

At the first visit, your veterinarian will:

• Perform a full physical examination (eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, coat)
• Check for existing microchip or implant one if not already chipped
• Assess vaccination history and begin or continue the appropriate schedule
• Screen for common parasites (fleas, ticks, intestinal worms)
• Discuss nutrition, feeding schedule, and appropriate diet for age and breed
• Answer any questions about behaviour, toilet training, and settling in

Week 1–2: Microchipping and UAE Pet Licensing

If your pet is not already microchipped, this should be done at or immediately after the first vet visit. In Abu Dhabi, microchipping is a legal requirement for all dogs and cats, and it is a prerequisite for obtaining a pet licence from Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA).

To licence your pet in Abu Dhabi, you will need:

• Proof of microchip (chip number and registration certificate)
• Up-to-date rabies vaccination certificate
• Your Emirates ID
• Completed licence application (available via the ADAFSA portal)

At Pawspact, we handle the microchipping and provide the documentation you need for licensing in a single visit. Read our full microchipping guide here.

Week 2–3: Vaccinations

Vaccination schedules depend on your pet's age, species, and existing history. For puppies and kittens with no prior vaccinations, the core series typically runs over 8–12 weeks. For adult pets with an unknown or lapsed history, your vet will recommend the safest restart protocol.

Week 3–4: Parasite Prevention and Settling In

Abu Dhabi's warm climate means parasites are active year-round. Monthly flea, tick, and heartworm prevention should begin as early as 8 weeks of age and continue without interruption throughout your pet's life. Your vet will recommend the most appropriate product based on your pet's age, weight, and lifestyle.

By week 3–4, most pets have begun to settle into their new home. Watch for signs of stress (hiding, reduced appetite, excessive vocalisation) and give your pet time to adjust at their own pace. If behavioural concerns persist, your vet can advise on strategies or refer you to a veterinary behaviourist.

Living in Abu Dhabi with a Pet: Key Considerations

• Heat safety: Never walk dogs on hot pavement — if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws. Avoid outdoor exercise between 10 AM and 5 PM in summer.
• Hydration: Ensure fresh water is always available, especially in air-conditioned environments where pets can become dehydrated without obvious signs.
• Pet-friendly housing: Check your tenancy agreement and building rules before bringing a pet home. Some buildings require pet registration with the building management.
• Emergency care: Know where your nearest 24-hour emergency vet is before you need one. Pawspact offers extended hours until 11:00 PM Thursday through Sunday.
• Travel and relocation: If you plan to travel internationally with your pet, start the documentation process at least 3–6 months in advance. Requirements vary significantly by destination country.