Dear Readers of Gozo News,

This letter is written to raise awareness about a serious incident involving roaming dogs that could pose a threat to local livestock and safety. On Christmas morning, a pack of three dogs – two white and one brown hunting dogs- managed to climb over the tall wall of my field in Triq Ir-Rokon, San Lawrenz and tragically killed six hens and two roosters.

While it may have seemed like playful behaviour to the dogs, the scene was nothing short of a horror film for anyone witnessing it.

I want to clarify that I do not blame the dogs for this unfortunate incident. Responsibility lies squarely with their owners. Dogs rely on their owners to guide and control them, and when this responsibility is neglected, the consequences can be severe.

To those who may own dogs, it is essential to understand the laws and obligations that come with this privilege.

Unleashing Responsibility: Legal Obligations for Dog Owners in Malta

King Frederick of Prussia once declared, “The only, absolute, and best friend that a man has, in this selfish world, the only one that will not betray or deny him, is his dog.” This sentiment highlights the unique bond between humans and dogs. However, this bond comes with responsibilities enshrined in Maltese law.

Chapter 312 of the Laws of Malta, known as the “Dogs Act,” outlines the duties of dog owners. No person over the age of 18 can keep a dog over six months old without obtaining a license issued by the Commissioner of Police. Furthermore, the Electronic Identification of Dogs Regulations (Subsidiary Legislation 437.101), enacted in May 2011, mandates the microchipping of all dogs over four months old. Owners who fail to electronically tag their dogs face a fine of €300, and all microchipped dogs are registered in a National Microchipped Dogs Register.

Additional legal obligations include the Control of Dogs Regulations (Subsidiary Legislation 312.01), which prohibits dogs from straying. When out in public, dogs must be kept on a leash, with exceptions made for hunting dogs during active hunts. Owners of temperamental or potentially dangerous dogs are required to keep their pets muzzled in public. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines and other penalties.

Of particular note is Article 14(4) of Chapter 312, which deems any dog that bites or assaults a person as “dangerous” unless proven otherwise. Owners who fail to control a dangerous dog may face legal consequences, including the potential destruction of the dog by court order. This grave outcome underscores the importance of proper training, control, and supervision of pets.

A Call for Responsible Ownership

While animals bring joy and companionship, they can also cause harm if not properly cared for. If you choose to own a dog or any other pet, it is your duty to act responsibly at all times. Negligence in this regard endangers not only your pet but also the community.

To my fellow Gozo residents, please take extra precautions to safeguard your livestock and property. And to dog owners, I urge you to ensure your pets are well-controlled, microchipped, and managed in accordance with Maltese law. Together, we can prevent such incidents and foster a safer environment for all.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. Let us strive for a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals on our beautiful island.

Roy Parker

Photos of some of the hens and one of the roosters that were killed

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