The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Food and Animal Rights announced Adopt a Pet Day on the 16th of January 2022, a day where the public and several animal rights NGOs are invited for a day of appreciation for animals, as well as get the opportunity to adopt one for themselves.
The event will be held at the Salesian Brigade in Mellieħa.
The aim of the event encourages people to adopt rather than purchase animals. The minister acknowledged that animal rights NGOs and sanctuaries have their limitations, specifically regarding the space and care for animals up for adoption.
During a press conference, Animal Welfare Director Patricia Azzopardi said that there are currently 100 dogs and 150 cats which have been confiscated from the streets or else from a case of animal cruelty.
The day will promote adoption of these animals, said Azzopardi.
Minister Refalo said that there will be new regulations so that more confiscations of animals in the streets and in cases of emergency can happen, working as well with NGOs and local councils.
Refalo said that if someone would like to adopt an animal on the day, they will be guided on the appropriate care for the animal, as well as prepare the process for adoption.