My 13-year-dog Fred has had to be put to sleep after suffering from cancer and other complications. His devotion to the family was second to none.

He seemed to have established a special rapport with his young vet Nicol Falzon who came to see him almost daily in the past few days and seemed to be listening every time the doctor explained to me what injections and tablets he would be needing. His passing was traumatic.

I write this as an appeal to those people who beat their pets whether dogs, cats, horses or any other animal, or just throw them out onto the streets when they are ill or no longer wanted. They should turn to either the extremely dedicated vets we have in Malta, who go far beyond their actual duties at times to ensure that the animal is comfortable and well looked after, or to the many voluntary organisations dotted around the island.

Believe me, the people who opt to get rid of their pet in this way are heartless individuals who cannot realise how faithful and devoted these animals are and that they certainly deserve better treatment.