Hundreds of dogs rescued by animal welfare officers

Over 700 dogs were rescued this year by animal welfare officers who intervened to free the animals from the chains of neglect or save them from life-threatening situations.

Some 2,000 dogs and cats were neutered this year through the national neutering programme and, since the animal ambulance started operating in June, welfare officers were called out on some 2,000 rescue missions, Rural Affairs’ Minister George Pullicino said.

“Animals are truly man’s best friend and, unfortunately, not everyone appreciates the value of the relationship between animals and humans,” he said on the occasion of Animal Welfare Day yesterday.

Mr Pullicino then turned to pet a black Labrador, called Axle, standing beside him and explained that it was the guide dog of Epifanio Vella, a blind man.

“Axle gave me back my eyesight and my independence,” Mr Vella said. “All I do is say the words: ‘Church’ or ‘bus’ and he guides me to the parish or bus stop... Axle is so obedient and reliable. I tell my children to try and mimic just a portion of his obedience,” Mr Vella joked.

Joseph Stafrac explained how his guide dog, Macy, also accompanied him to university where he was studying social work.

Ron Colombo, from the Malta Guide Dogs’ Association, said the association recently brought four guide dogs to Malta apart from three puppies.

He explained that guide dogs were carefully selected and not all dogs had the aptitude to become guides. The Maltese association collaborated with its Sicilian counterpart that provided the training.

He thanked the government for allowing the dogs to spend the quarantine time in their new owners’ home as segregating them would negatively affect their training.

“It’s surprising how guide dogs are accepted so warmly in Malta. I’ve been everywhere with my dog, Balto: in Church, restaurants, hospital and many other places,” Mr Colombo said as he held on to Balto’s handlebar that bore the message: “Don’t pet me... I’m working.”