Hundreds show solidarity with their four-legged friends

Hundreds of people ... and dogs yesterday turned up in Sliema to protest against animal cruelty.

The “silent march”, livened up with barks, was spurred by the horrific attack on Star, the dog that survived being shot in the head and buried alive.

“Star’s case was the straw that broke the camel’s back,” event organiser Fleur Cilia Buckett, said.

Animal lovers and NGO representatives asked for harsher penalties for such acts of cruelty.

Animal Rights Group chairman Myriam Kirmond said the maximum jail term should be extended to three years, up from one year, and culprits should also undergo psychological treatment.

“Star’s is not the only case of animal cruelty. There are many cases that go unnoticed. If these sick minds are not dealt with, we’re risking they’ll relapse,” Ms Kirmond said.

“We do not want just a slap on the wrist. My skin crawls when I remember that Star’s aggressors are still on the loose,” Ms Cilia Buckett added.

Resources and Rural Affairs Minister George Pullicino, present for the event, described the walk as “a protest of disapproval not only of Star’s case but vis-a-vis all those people who are cruel towards animals to flaunt their power”.

Before the walk, Shauna Vassallo, 10, interpreted a heart-touching song called Fejn, focusing on animal cruelty.

The protest started at the Ferries and ended in Ta’ Xbiex.

Several people waved solidarity banners. A poster read: “Harsher penalties. Yes we can.” Former policeman Donald Cutajar, holding a placard which called for “Justice for Sweetie”, said he was appealing for harsher penalties in the case of Sweetie, a German shepherd dog that died last July after collapsing during a training session at the Civil Protection Department quarters in Ta’ Kandja.

Star herself was too weak to attend.

The mixed-breed dog’s case is being investigated by the police. Anyone with information can call on 2122 4001, the Animal Welfare Department on 2590 4132/2590 4113 or send an e-mail to animalwelfare.mrra@gov.mt.

A fund was set up to reward anyone providing information leading to the arrest of the aggressor. If no information is provided within a year, the funds will be forwarded to animal welfare NGOs.

Those who wish to contribute can send an SMS to 5061 7375 for a donation of €2.33; 5061 8084 for €4.66 and 5061 9222 for €11.65.

One can also make a direct bank transfer on HSBC account 027 10618 6901 or go to Facebook and search for Star Reward.