Free animal first aid courses announced between October and November

The government has announced the dates and locations of free Animal First Aid courses, which will run in different localities from 16 October to 28 November.

The courses will teach residents how to respond when an animal is in an emergency, with participants receiving basic, practical training in choking, animal CPR, wound care, and poisoning. 

“When an animal is in an emergency situation, the first few minutes can be crucial. Through these courses, we aim to equip people with practical knowledge that can help them act safely and responsibly until the necessary veterinary assistance is provided,” said Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said.

She said that through this education, people will be provided with the necessary tools, to strengthen a culture of responsibility, care, and respect towards animals.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Parliamentary Secretariat for Animal Protection and the Ministry for Local Government and Public Works. 

Local Government Minister Alison Zerafa Civelli said 26 Local Councils have expressed interest in participating in this initiative, demonstrating the importance of continuing to create learning opportunities that are accessible and close to residents.

"Animal welfare begins with awareness, responsibility, and preparation; through this collaboration between the Government, Local Councils, and the Animal Welfare Directorate, we are bringing this knowledge closer to our communities.” 

The schedule covers eight sessions, each hosted by one council and open to residents of nearby localities. Bugeja Said said the courses show the government is investing in education and awareness in communities as well as in animal protection.

Qualified educators selected by the Animal Welfare Directorate will deliver the training and the courses will run as follows:

• Qala (Qala, Xagħra, Għarb): 16 October 2026, 3pm to 7pm
• Bormla (Ħal Tarxien, Bormla, Birgu): 17 October 2026, 8am to 12pm
• Floriana (Msida, Santa Venera, Tal-Pietà, Ħamrun, Floriana): 24 October 2026, 8am to 12pm
• Fgura (Fgura, Paola, Santa Luċija): 31 October 2026, 8am to 12pm
• Rabat (Rabat, Ħ'Attard, Ħal Balzan, Ħal Lija, Ħad-Dingli): 7 November 2026, 8am to 12pm
• Pembroke (Swieqi, San Ġiljan, Pembroke): 12 November 2026, 1pm to 5pm
• Marsaskala (Qrendi, Marsaskala, Marsaxlokk): 21 November 2026, 8am to 12pm
• Mellieħa (Mellieħa): 28 November 2026, 10:30am to 2:30pm