Libya Pet Vet

Find a Pet. Find a Vet.

Some Oldies, But Goodies

Here are some selected notices that used to be on the home page.  It isn't "new" news anymore, but some may still find the information valuable.

February 2008

Dog Theft in Libya: Bad News

There have been some reports that the theft of dogs appears to be a widespread and not-unusual occurrence in Libya.  The word is that dog-theft rings involved in the re-sale of dogs are well-entrenched in local markets and neighborhoods and bring lucrative profits.  Expatriates and Libyan dog-owners are both targeted equally and the dogs are often sold to unsuspecting purchasers.  To avoid becoming a target, you might consider never leaving your pet outside at night or when you are away from home, even during the day.  Walking your dog in your own neighborhood may act as an advertisement that you own a friendly pet.

 Always turn the key in the inside lock of the gate to your enclosed wall, even when you're home.  Once a thief scales your wall, he can simply open the gate from the inside and walk out with your dog.  It may be a bit of a hassle, but it's worth the time and effort.

December 2007

Thank You, Pet-Sitters!
Our recent request on behalf of a local family for someone to watch their dog, Emma, didn't turn up anyone available during those specific holiday dates.  However, two people did step forward for future assistance to pet owners.  One individual indicates a history of experience in watching others' dogs at her home.  The other is a husband and wife who would enjoy the temporary company of a family dog.  If you find yourself in need, send an email and we'll forward it to those folks so you can hook up and discuss details.

X-ray and Ultrasound Machines Available at Al Naja Clinic  
In addition to an existing x-ray machine, a portable ultrasound machine is now available at Al Naja Clinic.  As part of the clinic's expanding, modern services, the ultrasound machine will be useful whenever advanced diagnostic testing is required and in the case of animal pregnancy related issues.

You may also have access to advanced diagnostic tools by going through Dr. Jalal at Elmahary Clinic.  He'll take you to Al-Fateh University's Veterinarian School and use that equipment.

November 2007

Travel Alert! (Nov 12 2007)   
Libya now requires that foreigners entering or leaving Libya  present an Arabic translation of the biographical data in their passports before boarding flights.  I checked with my embassy and learned that this may only apply to "tourist" passports and not diplomatic passports, but you should confirm this with your embassy or passport authority before packing up your pet and heading for the airport.  

Internet Pet Scams
According to http://www.fraudwatchers.org/ and other internet fraud oversight groups, numerous scams are being aimed at people responding to ads to adopt a pet from overseas.  The ad usually claims that a beloved, often pure-bred pet is being given free to a good home and asks only that you pay the shipping/freight costs in order to adopt the animal.  The stated shipping cost is usually about U.S. $300.  After you wire your money, you never hear from them again.  There is no free pet needing a good home.  The fraudulent websites look perfectly legitimate and could fool anyone.  To read the FraudWatchers forum dedicated specifically to this kind of fraud (and they track numerous kinds of frauds, not just pets), go to http://www.fraudwatchers.org/forums/showthread.php?p=20947.   Pass the word!