Help for animal sanctuaries

It is quite disappointing that the authorities have as yet not provided SPCA Gozo with a suitable location to set up a sanctuary for the abandoned dogs that benefit from their shelter.

The news that SPCA Gozo may have to give up their sterling work because they are unable to keep their dogs in accordance with appropriate standards is alarming.

No regulations are as yet being enforced.

They were simply proposed and the government has made a commitment to provide funds to help all sanctuaries reach the standards required within a two-year timeframe.

In our first meeting with Minister George Pullicino, way back in September 2004, we recommended that there be such regulations as well as veterinary supervision for sanctuaries.

This was before our Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary had actually started to set up the premises where we now provide shelter for abandoned dogs.

Dogs that are rescued only to be kept in substandard conditions is something I always found most unacceptable.

I am sure that the government will find a suitable location for SPCA Gozo sooner rather than later.

In this way they will be able to keep their dogs in accordance with acceptable standards, as befits our four-legged friends.

SPCA Gozo has the ability and the will to create a real haven for the dogs they rescue. They do this with so much dedication and effort.

There is no doubt that they deserve government support.

Financial help from the government will only help sanctuaries improve their standards.

I appeal to all those kind-hearted people who have been generous with animal sanctuaries in the past to continue doing so.

Their help is still vital if sanctuaries are to survive and keep up with the ever-increasing costs of their operations.