SPCA calls for action over killing of five dogs

The SPCA has called on the authorities to bring to justice those responsible for the brutal killing of five dogs at Ta' Qali last Saturday.

"The chilling report that five dogs were brutally killed in a field at Ta' Qali brought home once more the ugly fact that we have a clique of animal haters who get some sort of high by committing foul deeds like this," SPCA president Monica Wiedersum said.

The dogs, two of which were slashed to death, were found lying next to the pitkalija market at Ta' Qali.

The incident, Ms Wiedersum said, showed the evil streak in some people.

"I fear that unless they are taught that this grotesque behaviour does not pay, it will be some time before respect for our animal friends becomes the norm among us."

The SPCA said it was particularly horrified by this kind of occurrence because it meant that animals which looked to humans for protection occasionally had the terrible misfortune of being sought out by youngsters or adults "with a barbaric mindset".

Ms Wiedersum expressed hope that those responsible for this latest outrage would be tracked down by the police.

She called on all schools and local councils to help the SPCA and other animal welfare organisations raise awareness about kindness to animals among their students and communities.