Brian Lee, Manchester, UK
Distinguishing animal cruelty
The article on animal cruelty has to be admired. However, I must add, this aspect appears to have been taken out of context. Let me explain.
In my 20 years coming to Malta I have never been able to understand why dog lovers let their dogs out onto the roof space early morning, to bark all day long and through lengthy periods at night, much to the annoyance of their neighbours and without any consideration for the welfare of the dog both physically and mentally.
These are the people who should be taken to court for crimes against the society in which they live. They are so self-centred it defies belief.
I wholeheartedly agree that "these innocent creatures cannot fight back" and that they need to "be protected from sadistic people". However, what is the difference between a litter of young pups being kept in a cage and the wholesale shooting of migrant birds flying from Africa to Europe via Malta and being shot out of the sky in the pursuit of "sport"? The answer is degree and the sooner that degree is put into context the better for the birds and for all animals on the island.
However, the law moves in mysterious ways, does it not so? Who knows whether it is the justice of the law or natural justice that will prevail.
Perhaps those with hidden agendas in society will have the answer.
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Franco Farrugia
May 3rd 2009, 16:17
@ Mr Callus: I think that I was clear enough in my third point. A gentle prod in the direction of the fact that Malta is not the only country where barbaric acts against animals take place, most unfortunately. But of course, in Malta, we, the Maltese, are much more interested in cleaning our own act.
Robert Callus
May 2nd 2009, 15:15
@Franco Farrugia
While I agree with you that in other countries shameful acts against animals (bullfighting for example) do take place, Mr Lee wrote in a Maltese newspaper. If he wants to complain on this newspaper he'll obviously do it towards what is happenning in Malta. Why should one condemn Spain on the Times of Malta?
I know what you tried to say, however it easily gives the impression that you mean two wrongs can make a right
Franco Farrugia
May 2nd 2009, 10:03
1. Regarding dogs on the roof, barking their heads off - yes, you are perfectly right. It is horrendous that dogs are left for their own devices and yes, they are a nuisance to neighbours. But we should not argue that they are a nuisance and stop there, as others do.
2. Regarding the difference between 'litters of young pups kept in a cage' and 'shooting of birds', the answer is NONE. There is absolutely no difference. Birds have as much right for their natural life and respect and dignity as any other animal and that is why I, for one, am against hunting and trapping which in Malta is nothing but a political issue.
3. While I thank you for your interest in animal welfare on our island, may I gently point out to you that there are also horrendous things happening to animals in other, supposedly more-enlightened countries than ours, and I suggest that you ALSO address those issues!