The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights has launched another edition of Animal Festival, an activity that has become part of the calendar of events and continues to bring families and communities together to celebrate and promote animal welfare in Malta and Gozo.
Animal Festival celebrates all those who work for the welfare of animals. From volunteers and NGOs, to veterinary professionals and authorities, and recalls the importance of a more educated and responsible society towards all animals. This festival will include a range of activities for families, including: talks and workshops on animal welfare, dog, rabbit, chicken and horse shows, educational stands, live music, as well as a dedicated space for children.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo explained that, “This activity clearly shows how much importance we as a country are giving to animal welfare. Festa Animalia will also offer a space where families and communities come together to celebrate the great contribution of all those who work every day for the welfare of animals – from volunteers to professionals. As a Government we will continue to work to continue strengthening initiatives in favour of animal welfare, while fostering a responsible and sensitive society towards their needs.”
Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said encouraged Maltese and Gozitan families to attend, especially those families who have a pet. “Following the success of previous years, we look forward to celebrating the Animal Festival again on the international day dedicated to animals. In collaboration between this Ministry and the Ta’ Qali National Park, this day will be an opportunity to continue raising awareness about animals, about how we can take better care of them and to appreciate their role in our daily lives.”
The Director for Support Services at the Ministry for Fisheries, Agriculture and Animal Rights, Estelle Sant explained how the third edition of the Animal Festival is being organised on World Animal Day. She encouraged everyone to attend this event which will be filled with activities for the whole family.
From the Office of the Commissioner for Animal Welfare, George Farrugia stated, “We encourage the public to attend Festa Antinal because these events are essential for the public to further strengthen their knowledge on how a person should raise an animal responsibly.” He went on to explain that during the activity they will provide more information on the adoption process and how the adoptapet system works. In addition, at their stand they will be offering to make a free personalised ID Tag for those who own a dog or cat.
Festa Antinal will be held on Saturday, October 4, in Ta’ Qali, from 10:30am to 4pm. More details can be found hawn.
