Public consultation opens on animal care professions as calls mount for stronger veterinary services
The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights has launched a public consultation on a new legal framework to regulate, register, and license animal care professionals – a move that comes as public pressure over veterinary services in Malta continues to grow.
The proposed Legal Notice, now open for consultation until 17th July 2025, outlines a regulatory structure for para-veterinary professions under the Veterinary Services Act. This includes veterinary nurses and technicians, groomers, farriers, aquatic animal experts, and animal trainers. According to the proposal, the Veterinary Surgeons Council will oversee the licensing and regulation of these professions to ensure higher standards of animal care across the country.
Agriculture Minister Anton Refalo said the initiative is intended to “strengthen service quality and formally recognise the professionals involved.” He described the consultation as an “important step forward” that aims to protect animal welfare through professional accountability and regulation.
“This is not just about veterinarians. It’s also about those who work closely with them,” Refalo noted, urging all stakeholders to contribute to building a fair and effective regulatory framework.
The announcement follows closely on the heels of recent public criticism over veterinary services, particularly the prolonged closure of the Ta’ Qali Animal Hospital, and the growing frustration among animal rights activists and pet owners, including a widely viewed video by Moira Delia highlighting life-threatening delays in emergency care.
In response to the backlash, the government unveiled a stopgap 24/7 emergency veterinary care scheme, coordinated with the Veterinary Surgeons Council and involving private clinics. While intended as a temporary measure until Ta’ Qali reopens, now expected sometime in 2025, the scheme has not quieted calls for systemic reform.
NGO Animal Guardians Malta continues to push for a fully operational national animal hospital, along with financial support for low-income pet owners and animal NGOs. Their petition, launched in February 2025, has been steadily gaining traction.
The consultation period remains open until 17th July 2025. Details and submissions can be made at: gov.mt public consultation page.
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