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In January when the weather was at its coldest, windiest and wettest, we discovered 20 caged dogs at Pembroke almost on the water’s edge. The rain was flooding the premises which had an inadequate ceiling and its uneven floor prevented water from draining. We informed the police and the ministry of environment as we imagined this was a case of cruelty. However, when we approached the carer we learnt a different story.
Rennie Scicluna’s only concern, when he organised the shelter, was the welfare of the dogs. His action was a desperate bid to help those animals so heartlessly abandoned and abused by others. He desired to make the lodgings comfortable but with hardly any help, his kind intentions seemed unattainable. He acted out of love and respect for the dogs and we chose to do the same. They needed compassion but compassion is only meaningful when it is translated into action, and true “respect” for animals is seen when we address their needs.
A friend supplied materials to arrange the shelter so the dogs could sleep in a dry place protected from the cold. We helped with feeding, cleaning and vet runs, and another provided bedding. Despite the loving hearts of many, the prevailing culture in animal welfare, starting from the administration, seems to be one of indifference and passive acceptance of neglect and abandonment.
This attitude questions the effectiveness of the Animal Welfare Act of February 2002. In its declaration of principles, part I of the Act stipulates that the state shall endeavour to “protect the life of animals”, “recognises its duty to promote animal welfare” and its “duty to collaborate with voluntary organisations.”
It is in the light of all this that we express our disappointment at the attitude taken by the Ministry. Our first communication via e-mail was on the 24th January. We received a courteous acknowledgement by Ingrid Zerafa in which we were told “officials from the veterinary services are looking into ways of upgrading the facilities” and that “Minister Pullicino sends his personal regards.” We were given the impression that problems regarding animal welfare would be dealt with seriously and cooperation would be forth coming. The events which followed proved otherwise. The Pembroke Local Council, turned to MEPA stating its residents were complaining and an eviction order was issued against the dogs which were housed illegally. We were concerned. What would happen to the dogs once they became homeless again? Were they to join the multitude of other homeless dogs all over our islands that cannot be homed at other sanctuaries or at the SPCA, for lack of space? The SPCA would have been happy to take in the dogs if they were in their new premises. We tried to speak to the minister but the only message we got, via his secretary was: “The pen is illegal, it’s Rennie’s problem. Look for a place to home them.”
The Minister clearly showed little concern if any about the welfare of the animals, even though according to the Welfare Act, he is responsible for them. How sad it is to realise that the people who have the authority to alleviate suffering brought about by abandonment and neglect do not live up to the noble calling. We all have to be charitable. Just as we have a moral obligation to be charitable to one another, we have the same obligation to look after God’s animals and His environment. We must humbly acknowledge this truth and understand that “God’s concern is for man and animal alike” (prov. 36:6).
We appeal to all members of Parliament, on both sides of the political spectrum, to look upon this national problem of animal cruelty, as urgent. Make it a priority on your agendas if you really know compassion and kindness. With a new mind and more importantly a new heart, pass the necessary laws to get the SPCA working on the new premises it so desperately needs and collaborate with all those sanctuaries which have long been practicing charity and giving their best. With good will and courtesy, solutions are found. All depends on the minister’s willingness to listen sensitively to proposals so a happy compromise may be found. Resources are available, recognise them and do not ignore and disparage all those who genuinely care about the welfare of animals in our country. The ball lies in the court of the politicians – we wait in expectation.
Joanna Grima, Steffi Zammit
Teriza Cassar Torreggiani
Attard
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