The Gozo SPCA said today that it will cease to rescue and house further stray dogs, and that its Centre Manager, Mrs Betty Berry, is resigning.
The society said that that the situation came to a head last week when a puppy was seriously attacked by an older terrier dog whilst both were in its care. Despite prompt veterinary attention and subsequent nursing, the puppy died from its wounds. Mrs Berry was distraught over this death, which should never have happened since it was a direct result of the cramped and unsuitable premises that the Gozo SPCA has struggled to work in for over 30 years.
"Because Gozo is a tiny island, any land that is suitable for a new purpose-built centre is all owned by the government. For over 20 years, Gozo SPCA has been in constant negotiations with the various officials of the Gozo Ministry with a view to renting such a plot of land. It is well known that the cost of building the new centre will be met from funds that the SPCA already have. During these negotiations a number of suitable sites have been proposed by the SPCA, but sadly, despite many words of encouragement and promises of help, nothing has ever transpired," the SPCA said.
Mrs Berry also sits on the Animal Welfare Council which is drafting new animal welfare legislation.
The SPCA said that within this legislation there were very specific requirements for animal shelters, none of which were met by the current SPCA premises. One of the many reasons for this legislation was to minimise the possibility of horrific events such as the one which occurred last week. In recognition of this risk Gozo SPCA took steps last year to limit the number of dogs in their care, hoping that this would relieve the situation.
"The SPCA and the volunteer helpers are so shocked by this current tragedy that they will no longer subject dogs to such unsuitable conditions. Since Gozo SPCA has no alternative premises, nor do they kill healthy animals, then the consequence is that with immediate effect they will cease to rescue and house further stray dogs. The emergency animal ambulance service for dogs will also have to cease."
Last year the Gozo SPCA picked up 356 stray and abandoned animals.
"There are many horrific stories attached to that statistic and Mrs Berry can no longer personally deal with the added anguish and sorrow that could easily be avoided, so she will be stepping down as the Centre Manager," the SPCA said. Meanwhile the society will review its effectiveness and viability over the coming months.
The Gozo SPCA regretted the inconvenience which its decision may cause and said that anyone needing assistance with any dog related emergency should go to the police, the local Vet or the Ministry for Gozo.