PRESIDENT OF MALTA CELEBRATES GRADUATION OF FIVE SERVICE DOGS

Five specially trained service dogs have successfully completed their training and preparation to assist individuals with varying needs in daily life. Balto, Dom, Sam, Pablo, and Kaydi graduated in a ceremony organised by Service Dogs Malta Foundation at the Palace of Sant’Anton, under the patronage of the President of Malta.

Each dog’s training costs approximately €15,000, fully covered by the foundation, ensuring the dogs are provided free of charge to the beneficiaries. Balto and Kaydi will assist individuals with mobility difficulties, Dom is trained for diabetes support, and Pablo will aid a person with a psychiatric condition. Sam, a Labrador trained with €15,000 government support, will be assigned to a seven-year-old girl on the autism spectrum, providing emotional stability, safety, and practical daily assistance.

During the graduation, President Myriam Spiteri Debono praised the foundation and volunteers for their dedication, highlighting how the dogs offer hope, independence, and a better quality of life to their future owners. Archbishop Charles J. Scicluna and Minister for Inclusion Julia Farrugia also acknowledged the importance of collaboration between volunteers, government, and families in creating meaningful change.

The ceremony concluded with the launch of the song “Dejjem Tiegħek”, celebrating the unique bond between service dogs and their owners.

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