‘Raġel Kbir’: Austin Borg Dies, The Man Who Gave Up Electricity To Feed His 80 Dogs And Cats
Austin Borg, the man many remember for tending to around 80 dogs and cats in his Birkirkara home, has died.
Austin’s name was on the lips of everyone in Malta after his story went public through Xarabank, in 2011.
He lived a life governed by a deep affection towards his pets, which he considered more as children. So much so, that he was left with no choice but to cut off his access to electricity, saving money on utilities to continue to be able to afford to feed them.
His efforts were well known among Malta’s community of animal activists, for keeping strays off the streets by welcoming more animals into his Birkirkara home. And members of The Island Sanctuary, a popular animal shelter, have honoured his memory with a heartwarming message.
“This man was abandoned by his own family from when he was a young boy, and so he never wanted to see another abandoned as he was,” one woman said.
“When he fell ill, the Island Sanctuary adopted the majority of his pets whilst he was receiving treatment. He was always asking to have them back over at his home, but he wasn’t healthy enough to care for them.”
His message and his memory live on, as tributes have emerged appealing for Malta to continue donating funds to help The Island Sanctuary.
Those interested can send a donation to the organisation through BOV mobile (79018901) or Revolut (79048680).
Lovin Malta extends its condolences to the Borg family during this challenging time