Malta’s Local Councils to Learn Animal First Aid
Local Councils Gear Up for Animal First Aid Training
Imagine this: a stray cat, injured and meowing in pain, trapped under a car in the bustling streets of Valletta. You, a local council worker, rush to help, but you’re not sure how to safely assist the creature. This scenario could soon be a thing of the past, as local councils across Malta are being invited to register interest in animal first aid courses.
A New Initiative for Compassionate Communities
The Maltese Islands are home to countless stray animals, and while many are cared for by dedicated NGOs, there’s still a lot of work to be done. That’s where this new initiative comes in. The Animal First Aid Training Programme, a collaboration between the Ministry for Gozo and Local Government, and the Animal Welfare Department, aims to equip local council workers with the skills to handle animal-related emergencies.
“We’re not just talking about cats and dogs,” says Dr. Andrew Borg, Head of the Animal Welfare Department. “We’re also thinking about farm animals, birds, and even reptiles. Any animal that might need help in an emergency.”
What Will the Courses Cover?
The courses, set to be held at various locations across Malta and Gozo, will cover a wide range of topics. From basic first aid techniques to handling injured or distressed animals, to understanding animal body language, participants will leave with a solid foundation in animal care. The courses will also include practical sessions, ensuring that participants are comfortable and confident in their new skills.
“We want our local councils to be ready for any situation,” says Minister for Gozo and Local Government, Justyne Caruana. “This training will not only help our workers to assist animals in need, but it will also foster a culture of compassion and responsibility towards our animal friends.”
Councils interested in registering for the courses can do so by contacting the Animal Welfare Department. The first courses are expected to start in the coming months, with more details to be announced soon.
