Guide

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

The Best Dining Offers in Dubai: Chic Restaurants, Lounges, Beach Clubs and Girls Nights

Sink Into Serenity: Inside Dubai’s Most Luxurious Sand Bath Experience at Cinq Mondes Spa

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series - An Experience They Keep Coming Back To

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Outdoor Movie Nights Return to JLT Dubai: Cinema Under the Stars Is Back for the Winter Season

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Classifieds

Jobs

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Dubai Dedicates AED 150 Million Government Support Fund For Influencers

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

Events

Don’t Miss It: DAZ Festival 2026 is the Ultimate Family Day Out This April

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series - An Experience They Keep Coming Back To

Wicked Makes Its Middle East Debut at Dubai Opera and It's Unmissable

Outdoor Movie Nights Return to JLT Dubai: Cinema Under the Stars Is Back for the Winter Season

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: When is the Long Weekend?

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: List of Ramadan Markets to Explore

Education

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

AL JABR EFI Opens Its French Nursery and Kindergarten in Dubai

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

Dubai Private School Hosts Rare Art Exhibition: "Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History"

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Art, Culture, and Inspiration Come Alive: A One-of-a-Kind Celebration at BC Academy

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Money

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

6 Financial Resolutions to Make for the New Year

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Home

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

FYI Dubai is Banning All Single Use Bags From June 1

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Car

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

Dubai Public Commute Timings & Road Closures for New Year's Eve

UAE Petrol Prices Will Increase in August 2024

Head's Up! Dubai Taxi Fares Will Increase in May 2024

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Authorities to Waive All Dubai Traffic Fines Incurred on April 16

Wellness

Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE

9 Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Where to Get Free Breast Cancer Screening in the UAE 2025

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Discover "The New You" at Zieda's Aesthetic Clinic in Dubai

Top Ladies-Only Gyms and Fitness Centres in Dubai

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

Get Expert Healthcare and Wellness Delivered to Your Doorstep in Dubai Within 30 Minutes

Shop

Shopping In Dubai

Best Online Shopping Sites in Dubai and UAE

An A-Z Guide to Dubai's Popular Malls

What To Wear At The Beach In Dubai

14 Hilarious Realities of Visiting Dubai Mall

Every Day is a Discount Day on THIS Deals Site

Cityland Mall Preview: Dubai's New Nature-Inspired Shopping Mall

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

Parent Rift over Dog-Advice Please

48 posts / 0 new

Last post

Log in to post new content in the forum.

369

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 20:31

I think they are being unrealistic and childish and if you want your dog, go and get it. BUT I agree with whomever said they dont think this is a good place for dog. Its just so darn hot and uncomfortable in summer for a dog to be walked and get enough exercise. It is a very long trip and the return back to Australia involves a stint in quarantine for 30 days, and we decided not to put our dogs through that and left them with family.

1692

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 20:29

Very unfortunate situation.... and no doubt been made alot harder now due to MIL reaction. Two years is along time to have something that ultimately you treat as a child and love to then be taken away from you even though you were told it was temp. I can see why they are so upset and clearly love the pooch very much hence the reaction. My folks used to be sad when we'd get back off our hols having looked after our 2 lads for just a fortnight.. We did bring ours straight out with us, I couldn't have come here without them. You've done that hard bit of leaving her behind, if she is settled, happy, healthy and sounds as though well looked after I would try very hard to not think about the comments made by MIL and think what is best for the dog.... there are so many needy dogs here that you would get such a massive sense of satisfaction helping one of them.. I don't envy your decision, but sure you will make the right choice for the dog.

Anonymous (not verified)

0

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 20:18

Whatever the circumstances and behaviour it still should be about what is best for the dog. Such a difficult situation. <em>edited by frampton on 03/02/2011</em>

1759

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 20:07

My dirham's worth is for you to KEEP CLEAR of this discussion, no comment no nothing. This is between your DH,his mother and to a very limited extent (if SHE allows it) step dad. IMHO step dad should sit down and shut up. That and the dirham I offered at the beginning won't buy you a bottle of water. I have no idea about what the outcome will be (I know what I hope it would be - but that's my nirvana). But hubby has to talk to him mum on a one to one basis about this. <em>edited by marycatherine on 03/02/2011</em>

1403

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 20:07

Its a hard one. MIL and BOB are using emotional blackmail and are just being completely horrible and mean about this whole situation and for that reason alone I would say bring the dog over here to be with you. But at the end of the day you have to decide what is best for the DOG, not whats best for you or MIL and BOB. So, take away your emotions regarding this rift and ask yourself HONESTLY, what is best for the DOG? Then you will know what the best thing to do is.

103

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 20:06

Bob is 70, he has probably grown very attached to dog and when people are old its very hard for them to give things up which has become part of his routine. Taking it for walks is probably just one of the many things that he jpys doing with the dog You gave up the dog when you left it and moved here. If you loved the dog that much and it was part of the family then you should have taken it at the time. You wouldnt leave a child behind. Think at his time of life you should leave the dog with him and perhaps get another dog here. Its pretty mean that he said he wants nothing more to do with you, a complete over-reaction. Suggest that if you let the dog stay with them, you try and get some kind of apology once the dust settles. Dont lose contact with family members over a dog. Hope you sort it out

2322

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 20:02

I do feel for you but 2 years of looking after a dog is way beyond temporary and I can understand why they would think that the dog is theirs, whatever the original arrangement was between you. This is of course very painful for you but I am sure the dog has bonded with your MIL and her husband and whilst you think of the dog as yours, the dog will think she belongs to them. You have to think about what is right for the dog and maybe that is staying with them is the right thing however upsetting it is for you. edited by frampton on 03/02/2011 But she has been talking just about constantly about when the dog comes over to the parents...the temporary situation may have gone on for longer than origonally planned/hoped for but it still is just that. Dog would have been winging it here 12 months ago if not for rather compassionately leaving it there for the parents to get over death of their own dog. I have had both cats and dogs live with my folks for 2 years at a time whilst overseas and they knew as soon as they saw me or heard my voice EXACTLY who I was and who they belonged with. I think I'd feel a little more tender towards the parents and concider adopting a new pup out here and leave dog with them IF they weren't being so blantantly emotional blackmaily about the whole thing. Totally unnessecary and below the belt.

Anonymous (not verified)

0

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:51

I do feel for you but 2 years of looking after a dog is way beyond temporary and I can understand why they would think that the dog is theirs, whatever the original arrangement was between you. This is of course very painful for you but I am sure the dog has bonded with your MIL and her husband and whilst you think of the dog as yours, the dog will think she belongs to them. You have to think about what is right for the dog and maybe that is staying with them is the right thing however upsetting it is for you. <em>edited by frampton on 03/02/2011</em>

2322

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:49

I just wouldnt enter into any more discussion with MiL about this. send an email saying that you are organizing a third party company to organize the shipping of the dog, and all the practical aspects of the shipping. Say as nicely as possible that you would appreciate if they could co operate with the agent to make it as easy as possible transition for YOUR dog. Thank them again for looking after the dog. Thats it. Don't let Mil wreck your head with saying how awful trip will be, dog won't know you etc...they are manipulating you and know full well what and how hurtful what they are doing is. If it carrys on, then nicely point out that it was only ever a temporary situation and while you are grateful for the love and care they have shown for the animal it is time for her to come home now. Just don't allow yourself to be dragged into tit for tat, she said, he said. Say that you are sorry that Bob and herself feel that way, but move along...time for pup to come on home.

12

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:46

wot a lucky dog to hav so much love ! It is a long trip for her, personaly i'd b so thankful to them for treating her as there own, which they did even knowing it was short term, they cudnt help loving her too much cuz you did too so you will understand that. Now they r scared of losing her and thats why theyv turned so mean, I think you shud leave her with them cuz they love her like there own, and rescue an abandoned dog here and then theres double love all round! They cudnt help falling in love with her shes a lucky dog to hav people like you cuz so many others dont care and just dump their dogs in the desert. Go to the pet show tomorrow and make another sad dogs life worth living :D

436

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:44

its emotional blackmail!!!! She is a 4 year old dog...she could easily live for another 10 years...I bet if they decided they wanted to move somewhere that was not dog compatible in that time, you would be expected to take her. I think there behaviour is awful, and you should not cave to it.

1046

Posts

EW OLDHAND

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:41

Personally I don't think Dubai is a great place for dogs, however.....s/he is yours and you made your intentions clear from the start and (correct me if I'm wrong) they offered to have her/him. They were always going to become attached and it would always have been difficult to part, but they should have the good grace to respect your wishes. Is gifting them a puppy / rescue dog an option or would that be out of the question?

43

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:37

The doggie is only 2 years old and we plan on being here for at least 3 more years and then who know's where we will take our next transfer, so it's not like we will be returning to Oz soon. I already checked into flying with her and she can't fly as excess baggage so no point in going back to get her.

Champagnelover28988

87

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:31

I say go get the dog! It was mean of her to send nasty emails and they knew it was a temporary occasion. How long do you anticipate being in Dubai for though and how old is the dog? These i guess may be factors in bringing the dog over. I don't think the MIL will not speak to her son over losing a dog that she was fostering, and if she does then thats just crazy! I wish you luck in what you decide. x

272

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:24

I think it's worth one of you going there to get her/pick her up and take the same flight, not sure how that works, i don't have an pet myself, but you feel so strongly about the situation then do what's best for you all... <em>edited by sababy on 03/02/2011</em>

2937

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 03 February 2011 - 19:22

Hmmm. That's a really hard one. My first reaction is that she's your dog and you love her and want her with you so that's the end of that. To cut all ties with family (or as near as dammit) because of you wanting to do something you planned to do all along is totally unreasonable, IMO. You've been honest with them and said the dog staying with them is a temporary measure, but it sounds like they've become attached, decided they want to keep her and not been honest with you about this. Perhaps they just thought you'd never ask for her?

Log in to post new content in the forum.

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY

AL JABR EFI Early Childhood Centre | French nursery in Dubai

AL JABR EFI Opens Its French Nursery and Kindergarten in Dubai

Dubai women dining offers guide 2026

The Best Dining Offers in Dubai: Chic Restaurants, Lounges, Beach Clubs and Girls Nights

Best music schools for kids in Dubai | Aureus Academy UAE

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

UAE Family Law 2026 | Divorce, Custody & Personal Status Guide for Expat Residents

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

Managing Anxiety during Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai | Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Top Online Schools in the UAE for Kids and Teenagers: CambriLearn

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

A Guide to DAZ Festival 2026 in Al Ain | Tickets, Activities, Food & Beverages, Shows, Events & More

Don’t Miss It: DAZ Festival 2026 is the Ultimate Family Day Out This April

How to get a divorce in Dubai as an expat resident

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History exhibition at BC Academy International School Dubai news

Dubai Private School Hosts Rare Art Exhibition: "Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History"

10 Essential Steps to Secure Your Child’s Educational Future

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Psammotherapy at Raffles the Palm Dubai

Sink Into Serenity: Inside Dubai’s Most Luxurious Sand Bath Experience at Cinq Mondes Spa

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

Kisari Kids - Awareness Parenting Coach Eva Szorad Interview

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Top online British and US High Schools in the UAE: CambriLearn

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Top 10 Low Cost Airlines in the UAE

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Top Nursery School Kids Summer Camps in Dubai 2025

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Travel influencer academy in Dubai

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

New 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

Breakfast with penguins at Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

How to convert another country's drivers license in Dubai

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Registrations open for EYFS curriculum Willow Children's Nursery in Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

Outdoor cinemas in Dubai for the winter season 2024

The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai to See Open-Air Movies This Winter

Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School in Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Expat legal consultants in the UAE | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Saray Spa promotions at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

This Luxury Dubai Spa Has Some of the Very Best Breaks To Escape To

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements