‘Tigers, Lions And Pumas Are Not Suitable Pets’ Animal Rights Organisations Stage Action Outside Castille
Activists from Vuċi għall-Annimali staged action in front of Castille earlier today – making a strong statement about “the plight of animals that do not have a voice”.
Along with this action, their group sent an open letter to Prime Minister Robert Abela – cosigned by eleven other animals’ rights organisations.
“The presence of exotic and dangerous animals in our country is on the rise” reads the letter.
“This can be attributed to misguided policies that allow any animal to enter Malta, coupled with inadequate control over the breeding of existing animals within Malta.”
“Tigers, lions, and pumas are not suitable as pets and should not be kept in private residences. Regrettably, the Government is permitting the importation and breeding of such animals.”
The groups’ qualms with governmental attitude towards animals extend far beyond problems for exotic animals.
“It is clear that the Government and the authorities are not listening to this plight – or are choosing not to listen because in your eyes animals are not important enough to take the actions needed.”
“Several months ago, an open letter endorsed by various animal-related organisations was dispatched to you. This letter urgently begged for immediate measures to alleviate the unfortunate situation of animals in Malta. Regrettably, little has changed since then.”
“The famous reform of the Animal Welfare Directorate, frequently mentioned, has failed to inspire confidence that any substantive action will ever be taken on behalf of these animals. The reality experienced by shelters, animal carers, and activists sharply contrasts with the false narrative presented by the Minister and the Government.”
“The present condition of the Animal Welfare Department is one of despair.”
Vuċi għall-Annimali proposed some specific, and wholly reasonable priorities and legislations in their letter.
- Legislation should be established to regulate the breeding of all animals
- Legislation should be introduced to regulate and licence professionals in the pet care industry, including petsitters, groomers, and trainers
- Legislation needs to be enacted to address and prevent the isolation of dogs
- Mandatory microchipping for cats should be made a legal requirement
The groups involved also took issue with the decision to open the spring hunting season.
“Your Government, in violation of the European Bird Directive, has opened spring hunting seasons for turtle doves. This is contrary to the efforts being made throughout Europe to protect these birds.”
“Such actions are in direct conflict with the EU and will result in the EU taking legal actions against Malta at the ECJ, potentially resulting in fines and extravagant legal costs, whilst at the same time the Government claims that it doesn’t have funds for Animal Welfare.”
“We wish to see genuine political determination and a clear strategic vision for change that prioritises the well-being of animals. This change should not be superficial but rather demonstrate a genuine commitment to animal rights.”
The letter was cosigned and sent by Vuċi għall-Annimali, Animal Liberation Malta, Real Animal Rights Foundation, Kitty Guardians for Strays, Innocent Paws, Help Us Help, Association for Abandoned Animals, Angels for Paws, Our Rescues Foundation, The Island Sanctuary, Buddy’s Lost & Found Page and Sunshine Animal Sanctuary, and can be read in full here.
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