Animal sanctuary in neutering programme

Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary has launched a neutering programme for stray dogs.

The NGO, situated in Paradise Bay, limits of Cirkewwa, will run the programme with the financial assistance of German organisation ITV Grenzenlos.

George Pullicino, Minister for Rural Affairs and the Environment, who was present for the launch on Wednesday, said coordination between NGOs and vets on neutering helped control the stray population.

"The ministry encourages these initiatives as it has been proved that such practices are the only effective and humane methods to reduce the number of strays and abandoned dogs on our streets," he said.

"Dogs are less likely to roam the streets, unwanted litter is reduced and the quality of life of these animals is improved."

The government is working on a stray control programme for the Maltese islands which will take off with the microchipping of stray dogs found in sanctuaries.

The programme also covers medication standards practised in the sanctuaries and the introduction of a quarantine area for the new strays brought in.

"It is also to be noted that when NGOs come together and work on a united front, animal welfare is better secured," said Mr Pullicino.

The ministry is also working on setting up a national animal welfare centre in Ta' Qali to provide NGOs with a centre for training and educational purposes and an after-care centre for the recovery of stray animals after having undergone surgery such as neutering.

Consultations are also being held with regard to a legal notice which has been drafted to set standards for the housing of animals sold at pet shops. Another draft law on the standards in sanctuaries is being reviewed by British experts.