The digital solution aims to replace traditional pet passports and vaccination books, creating a centralized database of pet information.
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Release date: Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 7:29 pm
Frustrated with juggling printed paperwork and booking pet appointments, a young Emirati entrepreneur launched an app that connects users to pet care centres across the UAE.
Pet Republic founder Mohammed Al-Zaabi, 23, said the digital platform, available on both the Apple Store and Google Play, acts as an electronic passport for pets, streamlining pet care services and record-keeping.
“This will simplify the process of booking appointments and managing pet medical records. The digital solution replaces traditional pet passports and vaccination booklets and aims to create a centralized database of pet information,” he told Khaleej Times.
Alzahbi launched Pet Republic in late 2022 after struggling to manage the care of his own pets. “Previously, I really struggled to find a pet care centre that fit my schedule and budget. I had to call several centres to find out the rates and see if I could get an appointment,” he said.
“The pet care industry faces many challenges,” Al-Zahbi said. [among] A significant problem is false documentation and unlicensed breeders, who often use false documentation and unsafe environments to deceive and sell pets.
“Additionally, there are pet centers with low standards that contribute to the industry’s challenges, and at PetRepublic, we have been brainstorming solutions through our services and initiatives to address these issues.”
E-Passport Functions
According to Al-Zabi, “The digital app will act as an electronic passport for pets, allowing care centres and pet owners to track medical, husbandry and vaccination histories and act as a central record to link with existing microchip numbers to locate lost pets.”
“The digital solution replaces traditional pet passports and vaccination records and creates a centralized database of pet information,” he added.
The app can also be used to quickly and easily transfer pet ownership within the app, simplifying the process for users looking to place their pets with a new owner.
Challenges faced
Al-Zahbi said that like any startup, Pet Republic faced its fair share of challenges. “Some of the challenges included introducing a new concept to people and developing it, as well as studying existing companies and getting to know the market,” he added.
PetRepublic’s journey has included participation in the GITEX 2022 and Sandooq AlWatan 2023 competitions, before securing investment through Shark Tank Dubai.
Reflecting on the challenges they have faced so far, Alzaabi said: “Entrepreneurship and startups are one of the most exhausting endeavors and in some ways a long-term investment. After building a talented team, it began to feel more like a purpose than a job. The journey so far has been great and we are truly prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.”