The photographs showing caged animals and the dirt left behind by the circus camp in Naxxar are deplorable.

The photographs showing poodles and sheep in small cages were heart breaking. They first began doing the rounds on Facebook, but ended up in the media, including this newspaper.  No doubt, the circus organisers will say that they were only in the cages for transportation purposes, but whatever the case may be, it is wrong. The Animal Welfare Department should investigate the case and follow the circus up to Gozo to see what conditions the animals are being kept in. I am of firm belief that animals should not form part of circuses, but as things stand, it is perfectly legal here in Malta. The least that the authorities can do is make sure that the animals are being treated well.

Chris Roberts

Naxxar