Some 'dangerous' dog breeds to be microchipped

Animal microchipping will soon be compulsory for certain dogs such as pit bulls as new regulations will aim to place more responsibility on the owners of breeds perceived as dangerous.

These regulations, expected to be in force soon, will give animal welfare authorities a tool to work with to curb dog fighting since such breeds often end up victims of the illegal practice.

"Animal welfare officers will be able to carry out random inspections on such breeds and, if not microchipped, they can even be confiscated," Animal Welfare Department director Mario Spiteri.

He stressed that, although breeds such as pit bulls were perceived to be dangerous, this was not always the case as some were actually very friendly with people when cared for.

Since the department was set up, just over two years ago, more than 2,000 cats and dogs had been neutered in an exercise aimed at reducing the number of strays, Resources Minister George Pullicino said.

Speaking during a press conference held at the government farm in Għammieri, Mr Pullicino thanked the department's officers for their sterling work and the public for collaborating by calling in with their reports.

He, however, deplored those who made prank phone calls to the department adding that around 50 such calls were received in three months.

Over 1,000 inspections were carried out following reports of animal cruelty and there were 25 ongoing court cases against animal owners.

Since the department took over the operation of the animal ambulance service from Noah's Ark, in January, some 500 animals were rescued.

Just last Saturday, an abandoned and dehydrated Siberian husky was taken in by the department after it was found roaming around in Mtarfa. The male dog, less than two years old, will be adopted by a staff member.

About 30 per cent of the animals rescued by the department were adopted while the rest were taken to sanctuaries or held at Għammieri until homed.

Mr Pullicino added that to encourage more adoptions the department would soon be updating its webpage with a section containing photos of animals seeking a home.

Currently, the page can be viewed through the ministry's main website (www.mrra.gov.mt) but the plans were to make it more accessible.

Mr Pullicino added that the Ta' Qali aftercare centre for animals was expected to open in September.

Also, this year, the reaching-out programme in schools, aimed at teaching children how to respect animals, would be extended to summer schools.

Anyone wishing to report an abandoned or abused animal can call the police headquarters on 2122 4001. Calls will be diverted to the 24-hour ambulance service.