Dubai’s known for its glitz, heat, and high-rises, but not everything here gets the same five-star treatment. Sadly, the city also has a problem with abandoned pets. Because many people come and go, dogs and cats often get left behind when their owners move away.
In our neighbourhood, reports had been circulating for days about a large stray dog roaming the streets. People were nervous - he looked big and intimidating, and some worried he might attack children. Eventually, a resident contacted security, who called the municipality. Over here, if a dog doesn’t have a microchip, there’s rarely a happy ending.
We couldn’t let that happen.
The Rescue
A few of us in the area (thank you to everyone that helped - you know who you all are ❤️) decided to do something about it. When the community chat lit up with another sighting, we grabbed some food, water, and a lead, and went out on a mission.
After some searching, we spotted him - a Saluki. Underweight, patches of raw skin from too much sun, clearly starving, and terrified of people. With patience (and a lot of treats), we slowly earned his trust until I managed to slip a lead around his neck.
A Fresh Start
He spent that night at my place. The next morning, we went straight to the vet - no microchip, just a faded tattoo in his ear. Possibly a breeder’s mark, possibly a trace of his past life as a racing dog.
We got him treated, vaccinated, and fed… and somewhere along the way, decided he wasn’t going anywhere. That’s how Jeff joined the family.
The Calm Behind the Chaos
Jeff’s since settled into his new life and quickly earned himself an unofficial title: M3 Dubai’s Mascot. He’s the quiet presence in the background of video calls, the occasional snorer during brainstorms, and the reminder that sometimes doing the right thing is its own reward.
And the best part is that everyone in the neighbourhood now knows him. The same people who were once scared now stop to say hello, give him a pat, or sneak him a treat. Kids call out his name as he walks by, and Jeff - being Jeff - soaks it all up with calm indifference and a wag of the tail.
He’s gone from “that big stray” to the community favourite, proof that a little kindness can change more than just one life.
Jeff's favourite resting spot in the garden... basking in the sun.
