The Gozo branch of the Society for the Protection and Care of Animals expressed concern at recent instances of dog poisoning in various locations in Gozo, with specific cases in Nadur, Sannat and Xlendi.

These have included both owned and stray animals.

The society appealed to pet owners to be especially vigilant when their animals are in the streets or in the vicinity of fields. If they suspect that their pet has eaten poison, no time must be wasted in seeking veterinary help.

The SPCA also asks that any stray dog that is suddenly taken ill be reported to it on 2155 3769, when the caller will be directed to an emergency number.

The society said that if anyone knew the identity of anyone deliberately placing poison where dogs or cats can get at it, they should contact the SPCA (Gozo), or the police. Information will be treated in strict confidence.

SPCA (Gozo) said it had picked up a pack of dogs which had been terrorising livestock in the village at Ghajnsielem for months.

It added that after numerous attacks on sheep, rabbits and chickens, the dogs slaughtered a pen-full of chickens but were caught in the act by the farmer.

The quick-thinking farmer shut them in the building and called the SPCA, which answered his plea for help immediately and removed the dogs from the premises. The farmer also gave a donation to the society for coming to his aid.

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