Strays are an obvious issue in Malta. For dog or cat lovers, it aches our heart whenever we see a stray walking around wandering for food, drink and shelter from our horrid summer or cold winters. It is really a sight no one enjoys to see. Some of us go as far as posting on RUBS Puppy Love, Malta’s leading pet Facebook group, begging anyone who can take the poor soul we find roaming in.
“They begged for anyone to take him in, but to no avail”
Well, Freddie the Fox Terrier is one of those lucky boys that managed to escape the reality of being alone outside with the help of some kind hearted people. Last Monday, a couple took to the Facebook group in search of a temporary home for the young pup, who the Animal Welfare confirmed to the couple was not chipped or older than 6 to 8 months. They begged for anyone to take him in, but to no avail. Late at night, the last post asking for help was put up and the pup was minutes away from being taken back from where he was found, as it was impossible for the couple to take Freddie in.
The last plea posted on Facebook on Monday evening seeking a shelter for Freddie
At the last minute, a kind gentleman from Madliena Lodge, who seems to be the general manager, offered to keep the dog for a night as the couple kept on looking where the puppy could be placed. It wasn’t until yesterday when the couple woke up to some great news. Miguel Spiteri, who had taken to dog in in the wake of the plea for help, had told the everyone on Facebook he was intending to keep the dog unless someone came in to take him, admitting it would be harder for him to let him go as time goes by.
Freddie with his new owner, Miguel Spiteri, Manager at the Madliena Lodge
It wasn’t until today when the great news came out publicly on a Facebook post by Miguel himself that he decided to keep the dog permanently. The news was welcomed with immense joy online, with the couple and the public applauding Madliena Lodge and Miguel for their immense generosity. It just couldn’t have really ended better for Freddie, the new name the little pup now holds given by Miguel. In the space of two days, he has been given a new life. From the streets, to a loving family. All by the kindness of one individual.
While everyone is immensely happy for the way this has ended, the problem still persists. We urge anyone who find strays in need of help to try and try again to get help. If it wasn’t for sheer determination, Freddie would still be on the streets.
