If there’s one place in Malta where one can hear happy barks, it’s The Island Sanctuary in Marsaxlokk. Being there is what one would imagine dog heaven to be like.

As the first team event this year, Progressive, a Maltese accounting, point of sale and hospitality system company, decided to visit because of many reasons.

“The great work being done by the team of volunteers at the sanctuary is highly commended,” said Alex Grima, managing director of Progressive.

“They provide the necessary care, support, feeding and shelter to homeless dogs for as long as it is needed. Apart from the human resource efforts involved, such an activity requires substantial financial support. Having visited the place, we are happy to confirm that our donation will be put to very good use,” he added.

The Island Sanctuary has been active for more than 25 years and tour guide Sylvia Zammit was able to tell a story about every dog. When accepting a new dog, each one is being monitored to see what it is scared of and passionate about. Then, they find it a perfect partner to live within the same pen. “It’s like a puzzle, because when letting some of the dogs out of their pens, they need to lead back the other dogs inside. Many of them were shy before arriving at the sanctuary, but now they have become social and happy dogs,” Ms Zammit said.

Beyond the material needs, what dogs need most is human contact, as they are so full of energy and have much love to give. Taking care of a dog full time could be too much for most of us due to a limited living space and a busy work schedule. However, visiting the sanctuary in the weekend as a family day out will give one positivity for the upcoming week. “We cannot wait to return,” the Progressive team said.