Pet Parents Travel Across the UAE for Pets Oasis’ Healthy Paws Project

More than 40 dogs and their human families gathered in Umm Al Quwain for Pets Oasis’ educational initiative, celebrating weight-management success stories and announcing that the programme will become a twice-yearly feature.

UMM AL QUWAIN, UAE, 25 October 2026 – More than 40 dogs and their human families came together at Pets Oasis on Saturday, 24 October, for The Healthy Paws Project, an educational initiative raising awareness about healthy dog weight, nutrition and the everyday choices that shape a dog’s quality of life.

With 90% of attendees travelling from Dubai and Sharjah to participate, the event demonstrated the appetite for practical, engaging pet health education across the UAE.

Founded by Dr Elizabeth Thomas, a veterinarian with 30 years of experience, Pets Oasis created the project to help families better understand their dogs’ body condition, feeding needs and long-term wellbeing.

“Healthy weight is about so much more than how a dog looks. It affects their comfort, mobility and quality of life. When we help families understand their dogs’ needs and give them the right tools and guidance, we can make a real difference to how those dogs live. That is what The Healthy Paws Project is about,” said Dr Elizabeth Thomas, Founder of Pets Oasis.

Celebrating Apollo, Google and Pablo

A highlight of the event was celebrating Apollo, Google and Pablo, three dogs whose weight-management journeys demonstrated the progress that can come from a structured approach and consistent commitment from their families.

Apollo was named the project’s Happy Paws Star, having achieved the most significant weight loss within a structured timeframe and approach among the success stories celebrated. His achievement recognised the dedication behind his journey.

Google also reached a significant milestone: despite being a senior dog, he has made impressive progress and is now successfully on a maintenance diet. His journey is an encouraging reminder that age need not prevent meaningful improvements in a dog’s wellbeing.

Pablo’s journey was another of the success stories celebrated at the event. Hear directly from Pablo’s owner on the Pets Oasis Instagram channel, where they will share their experience and reflect on the impact of the programme.

The event also marked the next chapter of the project, with three new dogs selected for the next 12-week weight-management programme. Their names will be announced by Pets Oasis in due course, and Royal Canin will sponsor their food throughout the programme.

Both Pets Oasis and Royal Canin are celebrating 20 years in the UAE this year, marking a significant milestone for the organisations.

A programme that will return twice a year

Following the success of the earlier participants and the response to the 24 October event, Pets Oasis has decided to make The Healthy Paws Project a regular feature, with the programme and educational event taking place twice a year.

The initiative will continue to create opportunities for dog owners to learn about weight management, nutrition and preventive pet care, while supporting selected dogs and their families through a structured programme.

Education with a little playfulness

The session covered weight assessment, body condition scoring and appropriate food portions, helping attendees better understand their dogs’ needs and the role of everyday feeding habits.

Learning was paired with play through Paws & Ladders, a life-sized version of the popular Snakes and Ladders game, specially adapted for dogs. The activity added a playful element to the educational experience while bringing dogs and their families together.

The guiding message of The Healthy Paws Project is simple: “We don’t just want our dogs to live longer. We want them to live well.”

Hear directly from the families

In the coming week, Pets Oasis will share videos on its Instagram channel featuring attendees reflecting on the event and the impact it had on them, offering a personal perspective on the value of pet health education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is The Healthy Paws Project by Pets Oasis?

The Healthy Paws Project is an educational initiative founded by Pets Oasis in Umm Al Quwain, UAE, to raise awareness about healthy dog weight, nutrition and preventive pet care. The project helps dog owners better understand their pets’ body condition, feeding needs and long-term wellbeing through practical education and structured weight-management programmes.

Where was The Healthy Paws Project held in October 2026?

The Healthy Paws Project took place at Pets Oasis in Umm Al Quwain on 24 October 2026. More than 40 dogs and their families attended, with 90% of participants travelling from Dubai and Sharjah, highlighting the growing interest in canine health education across the UAE.

How does The Healthy Paws Project help overweight dogs?

The initiative focuses on understanding healthy body condition, appropriate food portions and the importance of consistent nutritional management. Selected dogs participate in a structured 12-week weight-management programme, helping their families develop informed feeding habits and support their dogs’ long-term wellbeing.

Can dog owners from Dubai and Sharjah participate in The Healthy Paws Project?

The Healthy Paws Project welcomes interest from pet parents across the UAE, including Dubai, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. The October 2026 event attracted a significant number of families travelling from Dubai and Sharjah. Pet owners interested in future programmes can contact Pets Oasis for participation details.

How often will The Healthy Paws Project take place?

Following the success of the October 2026 event, Pets Oasis announced that The Healthy Paws Project will become a twice-yearly initiative. Each programme will continue to promote canine weight management, responsible nutrition and preventive pet care.

Who founded The Healthy Paws Project?

The Healthy Paws Project was created by Pets Oasis, founded by Dr Elizabeth Thomas, a veterinarian with 30 years of experience. The initiative reflects her commitment to helping families make informed decisions that support their pets’ comfort, mobility and quality of life.

How can I learn more about The Healthy Paws Project?

Pet parents can visit Pets Oasis or follow @petsoasis on Instagram for programme announcements, participant stories, educational updates and information about upcoming events.

About Pets Oasis

Pets Oasis is a pet care destination in Umm Al Quwain, UAE, offering boarding, grooming, veterinary care and pet shop services. Founded by Dr Elizabeth Thomas, Pets Oasis combines professional pet care with community initiatives that encourage responsible ownership and greater awareness of animal health and wellbeing.

Website: petsoasisuae.com

Instagram: @petsoasis

Media enquiries: info@petsoasisuae.com