Animal Awareness Day at Theresa Nuzzo School

October 15 was a special day for the primary school children at the Theresa Nuzzo School, Marsa. The children brought birds, mice, hamsters, turtles, tortoises, rabbits and even pigeons to be blessed by Fr Manuel Abela, OFM. Cap., parish priest of the Holy Trinity parish church. A pigeon was also released as a sign of peace.

Once the blessing was over, the children and their parents took part in a 'walkabout' around the school, mainly along Balbi Street and Cross Road carrying placards encouraging love and care of animals.

Those who had no pets brought animal soft toys instead. The children's parents brought along non-caged pets such as dogs and cats and accompanied their children in the walk.

After the walkabout, everybody gathered in the school yard for a talk and dog show by Rennie Scicluna who addressed both the children and their parents and exhorted everyone to love and care for animals and observe animal rights.

His dog, Floyd, gave a fascinating show and this earned it a hearty clap from the onlookers besides pieces of chocolate from his owner. The children were very eager to pat Floyd, and Mr Scicluna did not disappoint them.

Mr Scicluna was presented with a sum of money and a big box full of dog food which the children themselves collected. Another box full of cat food was given to the cat sanctuary at Luqa. The children were also given some pet food and vouchers by Mr S. Borg Cardona.