Few days ago,  the Government launched a national after-hours veterinary emergency service, to ensure pets across Malta and Gozo receive timely care when clinics are closed.

The programme combines three linked but independently operating elements: a free national Veterinary Emergency Help Line, a state-funded Emergency Care Support Programme, and a dedicated After-Hours Veterinary Emergency Clinic. Together they create an organised safety net for owners facing urgent animal health crises during nights, Sundays and public holidays.

The policy responds to the frequent difficulty of finding veterinary assistance outside normal hours. When emergencies such as severe trauma, breathing distress, poisoning, collapse or obstetric complications occur, any delay in treatment can cause significant suffering or irreversible harm. By prioritising rapid assessment and intervention, the Government aims to reduce risk to animal welfare and provide reassurance to pet owners. Central to the initiative is the free Veterinary Emergency Help Line, available via freephone 153 Ext. 22 and operated by Servizz.gov. Trained staff will handle initial calls, carry out structured triage and, where required, connect callers to a licensed veterinarian for telephone consultation. The helpline will identify genuine emergencies that need immediate in-person care from non-urgent concerns that can be managed safely until normal clinic hours. This screening reduces pressure on emergency services and ensures that critical cases receive prompt clinical attention.

Complementing the triage line is the Emergency Care Support Programme, which funds after-hours emergency consultations for small domestic pets. Services will be available nationwide at participating licensed clinics, which must meet regulatory standards under Subsidiary Legislation 437.106. All cases are recorded through the national Emergency Veterinary Case Submission System.

The third pillar is a dedicated After-Hours Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Fgura (7 Reggie Miller Gardens), open nightly from 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., and Sundays and public holidays. Equipped to manage critical small-animal emergencies, the clinic serves as the primary referral point for the most severe cases. While walk-ins are allowed, callers are encouraged to contact the helpline first (153 Ext 22) to streamline triage, minimise waiting times and give time to staff to prepare for urgent arrivals.

The clinic does not accept cases involving animals classed as dangerous under Subsidiary Legislation 439.19. These components operate in an integrated workflow: an owner calls the helpline, receives triage and either gets phone guidance, is referred to an open participating clinic, or is directed to the Fgura emergency clinic. Participating clinics log case details—including microchip verification, diagnosis and invoicing—via the digital submission system; validated claims are reimbursed by direct bank transfer. The process safeguards data privacy in line with GDPR while ensuring traceability and accountability in use of public funds.

Initially funded for one year, the scheme strengthens animal welfare protections, supports responsible pet ownership, and collaborates with private veterinary providers through coordinated referrals and fair compensation.

By combining expert triage, financial support and a dedicated emergency facility, the Government has established a modern, accessible framework to ensure no small pet in Malta or Gozo is left without vital after-hours care.