I refer to the article with the above title (TMID, 11 March).

What really irked me in this news item is the last paragraph stating “Meanwhile all animal sanctuaries are practically full at the moment and so dogs would have to be put down if they do not get adopted”.

According to English language dictionaries “meanwhile” is also explained “for the time being” or “now” while the word “practically” means “almost”. But who are the authorities kidding? Animal sanctuaries have been full to the brim for ages and not just now! In fact, the pleas of many of them for alternate premises have fallen on deaf ears. So now we are going to see overall healthy dogs having to be put down. What a shame.

Furthermore, I recall from articles in the media related to the new animal welfare centre at Ta’ Qali, an arrangement has been made with an animal sanctuary to take in injured dogs after their rehabilitation. Interesting how this is going to be undertaken when animal sanctuaries are practically full and they do not have room for any more strays.

Antoinette Catania

Birkirkara