Emergency care talks at an 'advanced stage', says veterinary association

A veterinary association has said arrangements for out-of-hours veterinary care are at an “advanced stage”, after the sector was reminded by the government of its obligations to animals requiring critical care following the death of a spaniel.

On Friday, the Animal Rights Ministry said it was investigating failures in the emergency veterinary system after a two-year-old spaniel, Pixie, died when her owners were unable to access care during the early hours of the morning. 

The ministry had reminded the Veterinary Surgeons Association that it is legally bound to ensure that animals in critical condition receive care without delay, regardless of the time of day.

In a statement Saturday, the Malta Veterinary Association (MVA) said it “wishes to reassure the public that discussions regarding the establishment of a rotational emergency service are at an advanced stage, in close collaboration with the government”.

The association was referencing a new scheme launched by the government in July to offer 24/7 emergency vet services from various licensed clinics, with licensed clinics in Gozo and the Northern and Southern regions of Malta invited to participate on rotation.

“The public should kindly appreciate that such an emergency service is a commodity that can easily be withdrawn by the government in response to negative reactions, which would directly impact the management of emergencies”, the association said.

“The MVA also reiterates the public’s call for the re-opening of a fully equipped animal hospital, which remains essential to safeguarding standards of care.”

The Ta’ Qali Animal Hospital, which provided emergency services during hours when veterinary services are usually unavailable, closed back in 2023, after several machines suffered extensive damage from a power surge.

While the association “fully recognises the urgency and importance of an out-of-hours service”, it “strongly encourages” pet owners to build relationships with their own vets and to have contact details on hand in the event of an emergency.

“The MVA regrets that recent statements have attempted to place responsibility on private practitioners and cast the profession in an unfair light before the public”, the association said, stressing vets were “already providing continuous service to the community, often extending their availability beyond regular working hours”.

“Without adequate rest, however, professional performance may be compromised, which in turn could affect the quality and safety of care provided”, the MVA said, reiterating calls for a new dedicated veterinary hospital.

“This [hospital] would provide essential back-up to practitioners, safeguard service standards, and ensure that complex emergencies and specialised treatments can be managed to the highest level of professional care.”