Imagine this: a sweltering summer’s day in the Three Cities. A distressed dog, panting heavily, collapses on the sun-baked streets of Vittoriosa. Who would you call? What if the rescue team arrived too late because they lacked the necessary animal first aid skills?

This scenario, thankfully, is about to change. The Animal Welfare Department, in collaboration with local vets and rescue organisations, has launched an initiative aimed at equipping local councils and their staff with vital animal first aid skills. The goal? To ensure that our furry friends receive immediate, life-saving care until professional help arrives.

Malta, with its rich history and diverse wildlife, is home to thousands of pets and strays. From the bustling streets of Valletta to the quiet lanes of Gozo, animals are everywhere. Accidents happen, and when they do, every second counts. That’s where these courses come in.

“We’ve seen too many cases where prompt action could have saved a life,” says Dr. Maria Galea, a local vet involved in the project. “With these courses, we’re empowering councils and their staff to make a real difference.”

These aren’t your average first aid courses. Tailored specifically for animals, they’ll cover everything from CPR and wound care to administering medication and managing shock. You’ll learn how to handle common emergencies, from heatstroke to snake bites, and even how to safely approach and secure injured animals.

“We want participants to feel confident and capable,” says Dr. Galea. “Our aim is to turn them into animal first aid champions in their communities.”

Local councils interested in registering for these courses can do so by contacting the Animal Welfare Department directly. The first batch of courses is set to start in October, with more planned for early next year.

“We’re excited about this initiative,” says a spokesperson for the department. “We believe it will significantly improve animal welfare across Malta.”

So, the next time you’re walking your dog in the gardens of San Anton or enjoying a cat cafe in Paceville, remember, help could be just around the corner – or rather, just around the council office.