The Animal Welfare Directorate has told The Journal that its facilities regularly reach full capacity with the number of dogs picked up from the streets.

The Journal recently carried an article in which a dog owner spoke about the wider neglect of animals, an issue that ultimately takes its toll on both the animals and the shelters.

Christa Cilia emphasised the responsibility owners have towards their pets urging them not to abandon, deny or delay any necessary medical treatment.

Although several measures have been put in place by the Government, the number of stray dogs remains a persistent issue.

The Animal Welfare Directorate has stated that in 2024, 448 dogs were collected from the streets while in 2025, the total number stood at 335.

The Directorate has reminded the public that a 24-hour emergency service was launched a few months ago under which the initial medical consultation, for domestic pet animals, is refunded by the Government.

Moreover, a free national helpline is as the first point of contact for these veterinary emergencies. This helpline is operated by Servizz.gov and callers can get professional advice through the freephone 153, Ext. 22. The Freephone Servizz.gov 153, extension 22 veterinary emergency helpline operates every day from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM. It is also available for 24 hours on Sundays and public holidays. This service is designed for genuine emergencies involving domestic pets outside of regular veterinary clinic hours. Trained personnel will answer your call to assess the situation and provide guidance.

Additionally, following the success of the National Neutering campaign launched during 2023 the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights extended the initiative for dogs.

This campaign aims to control the population of dogs, reducing the number of strays and unwanted litters. Another anticipated benefit is the decreased burden on animal sanctuaries and on the Animal Welfare Directorate in managing unwanted, abandoned or stray dogs. The ultimate goal is to improve the general welfare of dogs across the Maltese Islands. This campaign specifically targets bully type dogs due to a spurious increase in their number. The campaign also targets farm dogs and latch key dogs kept in rural areas.

The following dogs are eligible for neutering:

1.​Bully type dogs and their crosses

2.​All dogs kept in rural areas dogs (registered farms and farmland) excluding tal-Kaċċa dogs. Tal-Kaċċa dogs are excluded from the neutering campaign in an effort to preserve the current genetic pool for reasons related to the defining the breed standard and attaining international breed recognition.

The scheme applies for dogs which are fully microchipped and registered in the applicant’s name. Dogs that are not registered and electronically identified are ineligible for participation.

For private dog owners the breed or crosses must confirm to the breeds mentioned above. Dogs in rural areas must be registered on farmers or livestock farmers and must reside in those rural areas.

To benefit from the scheme interested members of the public may show their interest by calling 22924369 (between 7:00AM – 1:00 PM) or by sending an email on: [email protected]

Responsible pet ownership is measured not only by affection, but by action. Neutering your pet and seeking medical care when it’s needed are acts of responsibility that protect their health and dignity, while helping communities reduce suffering and neglect. By making informed, caring choices today, you’re giving your pet a healthier tomorrow, and honouring the trust they place in you every single day.