The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights is taking decisive steps to address concerns about the keeping of dangerous animals in Malta. Since 2016, when the Keeping of Dangerous Animals Regulations (SL 439.19) came into force, several reports of unregistered dangerous animals have been received, raising concerns about both animal welfare and public safety.
During meetings with various non-governmental organizations and activists working for the proper protection of animals, a proposal was presented for the authorities to introduce stricter regulations on this subject. In the submissions, 25 non-governmental organizations proposed a number of measures, including a defined period during which dangerous animals can be identified and registered and mandatory culling of animals to prevent their numbers from increasing and to prevent illegal breeding.
In light of these proposals, an amendment will be made to Subsidiary Law 439.19 introducing a 90-day period for the registration of dangerous animals. This amendment comes into effect today and over the next three months owners of these animals must comply with the updated regulations. Under the new provisions:
- All registered animals must be subject to mandatory repair within six months, unless exempted according to specific guidelines related to the nature of the animal;
- Owners and keepers will need a certificate of competence to ensure that care is provided responsibly and that animal welfare standards are respected;
- Applicants must submit all required details as stipulated in SL 439.19, including permanent identification of the animal, proof of adequate confinement and measures to ensure both the welfare of the animal and the safety of the public.
Only those applications that meet the stipulated requirements will be approved and the Director of Veterinary Regulation has the power to reject applications that are deemed inadequate or pose a risk to public safety. If it is found that the animals do not have adequate accommodation, registration will not be granted and they will have to be relocated at the owner’s expense.
Owners who register animals will be included in the National Dangerous Animals Registry after verification and inspection by the authorities.
Individuals found in possession of unregistered dangerous animals or who violate regulations will have their animals confiscated and may be subject to:
(i) administrative fines between €8,000 and €15,000 per animal;
(ii) fines ranging from €2,000 to €65,000 and up to three years in prison on a first conviction, with greater penalties for repeat offenses.
Applications should be submitted by hand to the Director of the Veterinary Regulation Directorate in the Animal Welfare Section, within the Veterinary Regulation Directorate, Slaughterhouse Street, Albert Town, Marsa – MRS 1123. Requests for an appointment to submit an application and any clarifications or questions related to the application can be made by calling 205326292 or 20532625 or sending an email to: veterinaryregulation.mafa@gov.mt
The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights remains committed to ensuring the welfare of all animals, as well as public safety.
