A new agreement of more than €150,000 over a three-year period, has been signed by the Ministry for Inclusion and Volunteering and the Service Dogs Malta Foundation, to strengthen and expand the assistance dog service in Malta.

Through the agreement, the Ministry will invest more than €50,000 per year between 2027 and 2029. This investment will be used, among others, for the training of three service dogs each year, with the aim of ensuring that more people with disabilities or other conditions have access to the assistance they need in their daily lives.

It was explained that the agreement provides the Service Dogs Malta Foundation with a three-year support framework, so that it can continue to strengthen its work in the socialisation and professional training of dogs, as well as in the process of eventually connecting them with people who need their assistance.

These dogs provide important practical support, including assistance with mobility and orientation, while enhancing the independence, confidence and quality of life of the people who use them.

The funding will cover essential aspects including the raising and training of the dogs, veterinary care, food, costs related to families caring for the puppies during their initial phase, as well as costs related to kennels and administration. The agreement also includes governance, transparency and accountability measures to ensure the responsible and effective use of public funds.

Photo: DOI

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