Animal welfare commissioner Alison Bezzina has called for an increase in dog-friendly beaches and increased education on the subject in the midst of national debate on the matter. Bezzina stated that discussions with the relevant entities and authorities are currently underway regarding the possibility of an increase in dog-friendly beaches.
The final decision will ultimately be taken by the Environmental Health Directorate and Superintendent for Public Health. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) current guidelines state that dogs affect the water’s quality and people’s health.
Malta currently has seven dog-friendly beaches while Gozo has two. Anyone caught breaking the law and taking their dogs to other beaches may be subject eligible for a fine of up to €4,658 or a six-month prison sentence for the first infraction and up to €11,646 or a two-year prison sentence for the second.
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