Another appeal for information from anyone who might know who shot a dog and buried it alive near Ghar Hasan in Birzebbuga has been made this evening by the Rural Affairs Ministry.

The dog, who has been named Star, was rescued by officers of the Animal Welfare Department yesterday afternoon. Such was the cruelty inflicted on the dog that it had a gunshot wound on the side of its head and all its limbs were tied.

The dog was operated and more than 40 gunshot pellets were removed from the wound, along with pieces of plastic.

The Animal Welfare Officers went to the site after an anonymous phone call. They also found three dogs being kept in a small cage.

In a statement, the ministry thanked the Animal Welfare officers for their work with animals.

It said that yesterday's find reaffirmed the directorate's important role and their useful work.

The ministry said that since the department was set up the country's legislation was strengthened introducing stiffer fines for animal cruelty, 19 cases were decided in court against people who maltreated animals, financial assistance was given to sanctuaries and St Francis Centre, the first centre for animal welfare was opened.

Moreover, 2,000 stray cats and dogs were collected and nearly all were homed and a 24-hour animal ambulance started to be operated.

Anyone having information on the case may contact the police on 2122 4001.

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