Vuci ghall-Annimali (Voice for Animals) and Animal Liberation Malta have launched a petition demanding the enforcement of Malta's dangerous animals and zoo regulations, the NGOs stated on Friday.
They said that this came about in the wake of the recent case of four illegally caged lions as well as a leopard in Naxxar, as the NGOs said that these animals were moved to an area in Rabat but still continue to live in unsuitable conditions.
In December 2023, four lions and a leopard were discovered in a building near the Ghallis area in Naxxar without the necessary permits. Following this, the animals were relocated to a site in Rabat, with authorities having stated that the animals were in good health despite being held in substandard conditions.
Going over the demands within the petition, the NGOs said that the petition calls for the immediate confiscation of the lions and the leopard, adding that these animals should be relocated to a reputable international sanctuary for proper care and rehabilitation.
They continued that the petition also calls for the full enforcement of animal welfare laws and the enforcement of the ban on petting in zoos. The petition is therefore calling for stronger actions against illegal zoos and facilities, including legal accountability for those breaching the law, as well as enforcement of the ban on the petting of wild or dangerous animals in zoos.
Another aspect of the petition is a call to enforce mandatory neutering and regular veterinary visits, meaning annual check-ups by specialised veterinarians for all dangerous animals.
The NGOs continued that the petition calls for the creation of a national DNA registry in order to monitor and track dangerous animals as well as ensure legal compliance.
They concluded that the petition also calls for a positive list of animals, meaning that it is calling for the creation of a list of animals which are acceptable as pets in addition to the banning of the trade and importation of exotic animals.
Althea Galea from Vuci ghall-Annimali stated that the lives of the animals need to be protected and that Malta's laws need to be fully enforced.
Those interested in viewing the petition can do so by visiting the following website; https://www.vucighallannimali.com/petition