Gozo SPCA would be forced to cease operations by the end of next year unless action was taken to build an animal shelter that conforms with the new Animal Welfare Act the society said.

Last December Gozo SPCA signed an undertaking with the Ministry for Rural Affairs and the Environment that by December 2009 the society would be in a position to comply with new standards for the kennelling of dogs and cats.

The society said that it welcomed the act, since it would result in an enforceable framework of standards for the care and welfare of all animals, but due to limited space, the current premises cannot conform to the regulations.

Upgrading the present premises was a physical impossibility. So it is vital that Gozo SPCA, in conjunction with the Gozo Ministry would find a suitable site to build a new rescue and rehoming centre. In the past three years Gozo SPCA has picked up well over 1,000 abandoned dogs and cats. Lately, the society experienced major problems due to overcrowding of the animals in its care, which for the first time in its 32-year history had resulted in a fatal injury to one of the dogs. In view of this, a limit has been set to the number of dogs in care, though that is currently being exceeded.

Since it was not Gozo SPCA's policy to put down healthy animals, the society was unable to take in any more strays until the numbers in their care were reduced through re-homing, the society said.

Gozo SPCA would continue to rescue injured and sick animals, while supporting the care of healthy strays in the community. It would also continue with its successful policy of catching, neutering and releasing feral animals, as well as offering assistance with the fees for neutering owned animals.

Gozo SPCA hoped the authorities and the public would understand the situation and that a suitable rental site, on which new premises could be built, would soon be found. This would enable the society and its devoted staff and volunteers to continue their long-standing and vital service.

For further information contact Betty Berry, centre manager and PRO, tel: 9980 7067 e-mail: info@spca-gozo.org.

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