Imagine strolling along Triq l-Imqabba, the sun warming your face, when you hear a chorus of barks and purrs. This could soon be a reality as plans for an animal rehoming centre in this bustling street have been announced. The project, spearheaded by local charity Paws & Effect, promises to transform the lives of countless animals and the community alike.

Malta’s stray animal population is a pressing issue, with countless cats and dogs in need of loving homes. Paws & Effect, already renowned for their tireless work in neutering and vaccinating stray animals, is now set to open a state-of-the-art rehoming centre in the heart of Malta. The centre, located in a disused warehouse on Triq l-Imqabba, will provide a safe haven for animals awaiting adoption.

“This centre will be more than just a shelter,” explains Maria Azzopardi, founder of Paws & Effect. “It will be a place where animals can heal, grow, and find their forever homes. We want it to be a hub for the community, a place where people can come, meet our animals, and maybe even adopt one.”

The centre will boast spacious enclosures, a veterinary clinic, and even a small café where visitors can enjoy a coffee while watching the animals play. But perhaps the most innovative feature is the ‘Barking Lot’, a space where dogs can socialise and exercise, providing a much-needed service for local dog owners.

“We want this centre to be a resource for the community,” says Azzopardi. “We’ll be offering dog training classes, pet therapy sessions, and even a doggy day-care service. It’s about creating a space where people can connect, learn, and give back.”

The project has already received overwhelming support from the local community, with many volunteering their time and skills to help bring the centre to life. But Paws & Effect is also calling on the government to support the project, both financially and through policy changes that could help reduce the number of stray animals on the island.

“We need to see a shift in how we approach animal welfare in Malta,” says Azzopardi. “That means stricter penalties for animal cruelty, more support for charities like ours, and a push for compulsory neutering and microchipping. With the right policies in place, we could see a significant reduction in the number of stray animals on our streets.”

As the centre takes shape, Paws & Effect is inviting the public to get involved. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, every bit of support brings the centre, and a brighter future for Malta’s stray animals, one step closer.

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