MSPCA Demands Stricter Pet Grooming Regulations Following Tragic Loss Of Prince
The recent tragic death of Prince, a beloved Pomeranian, during a grooming session in Għaxaq has sparked a pressing call for comprehensive reforms in pet grooming regulations across Malta.
MSPCA issued a statement saying this tragedy exposes critical flaws in current practices and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive regulatory measures to protect Malta’s pets.
It was highlighted that despite the introduction of new standards in 2024, significant gaps remain. There is no mandated protocol to manage anxious or uncooperative animals—an issue that has long been a concern for animal welfare advocates. Furthermore, although the new regulations require pet groomers to hold proper qualifications, the lack of a specified enforcement date means that untrained individuals may continue to operate, placing pets at further risk.
The MSPCA emphasised that partial measures will not suffice to safeguard the well-being of pets. They are calling on pet owners, animal lovers, and concerned citizens to raise awareness about these deficiencies and to demand swift action from local representatives. By engaging with relevant authorities and supporting animal welfare initiatives, the MSPCA believes that a safer environment for our beloved pets can be achieved.
As the organisation poignantly stated, “Their lives are in our hands.” The MSPCA’s call to action is a reminder that every pet deserves secure and professional care and that it is incumbent upon the community and policymakers alike to ensure that such standards are rigorously enforced to prevent future tragedies.
The groomer Alejandro José Molina Becerra, as well as his employer Soren Nygaard Anderson, were charged with mishandling the pet.
An Animal Welfare investigation detailed CCTV footage showing the groomer placing Prince on a table with a tight noose around its neck.
According to the report, Prince displayed clear signs of distress.
After over an hour, the groomer placed Prince—still struggling to breathe—into a crate. The dog later walked out of the crate, collapsed, and hyperventilated. Around 15 minutes later, the shop called a vet, but by the time the vet arrived, Prince had succumbed to his injuries.
An autopsy report concluded that Prince died from internal bleeding while being examined by the vet.
Do you agree with MSPCA? Share this to raise awareness