An expression of interest for Local Councils to hold Animal First Aid courses for residents in local council buildings, has been launched by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government, together with the Parliamentary Secretariat for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights.

This initiative aims to increase knowledge and basic skills related to animal first aid, while further promoting the proper care of animals.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli said that this initiative arose from a proposal on how citizens could be given basic training in animal first aid.

“As soon as we heard this proposal, we felt it was a valuable initiative that could make a real difference in our communities. That is why we worked to deliver this project through the Local Councils, so that more animal owners have the opportunity to learn skills that can save the lives of their animals,” said Parliamentary Secretary Zerafa Civelli.

Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said, said that these courses are another step to continue strengthening the culture of responsibility and care towards animals in communities.

She said that ”through this initiative, we are giving more tools and knowledge to animal owners so that they can react immediately and safely in emergency situations. These are important skills that can help in cases such as heatstroke, choking or poisoning, where immediate first aid can prevent the animal’s condition from worsening and even save its life before it reaches a veterinarian.”

Director General Emil Vassallo said that Local Councils will provide resources such as local council buildings where the courses will be held, as well as support in their promotion in order to attract more participants.

Director General of Animal Welfare Dennis Sciberras explained how the courses will provide practical training on how to react in emergencies involving animals, including in cases of choking, CPR for animals, wound care and poisoning, in order to provide immediate and safe care until veterinary assistance arrives.

The organisation and coordination of the initiative will be led by the Local Government Division, while the training will be given by qualified educators selected by the Animal Welfare Directorate. These courses are due to start next October.

Photo: DOI/Kian Bugeja

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