Universal Air Unveils Exciting New Summer Destinations from Malta

Apr 16 2024

Universal Air has announced an exciting expansion to their summer schedule, launching several new flights from Malta. This includes destinations like Cagliari in Sardinia, Perugia in Northern Italy, Nice in France, and Prague in Czechia. They are also introducing a direct route between Cagliari and Prague.

These new routes will run from May until October and are in addition to existing flights to popular locations such as Athens, Corfu, Ibiza, Palermo, and Pécs.

The airline’s summer schedule promises affordable travel options, with prices starting at just 30 Euros for a one-way ticket from Malta to Palermo. This price includes a 15kg checked luggage allowance plus a 7kg carry-on bag.

Simon Cook, CEO of Universal Air, highlighted the importance of these new routes. He emphasised that they are not just about adding destinations but are focused on connecting cultures, enhancing business opportunities, and building international relationships. The airline is committed to maintaining high safety standards and improving customer experiences as part of their expansion.

Destinations like Athens offer a rich blend of history and culture, whereas Palermo provides a perfect mix of Italian architectural, culinary, and traditional experiences. These new routes by Universal Air not only aim to boost tourism but also support local economies and contribute to cultural exchanges.

Universal Air, known for its reliable charter and cargo services, operates out of Malta International Airport. This expansion underscores their ongoing commitment to growth and excellence in the aviation industry. For more details, travellers can visit their website at www.flyuniversalair.com.

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Petition For Temporary Bull-Breed Breeding/Importation Ban

Apr 16 2024

In response to recent distressing cases of abuse and neglect involving bully breed dogs, animal welfare organizations including Vuċi għall-Annimali, Gozo SPCA, Noah’s Ark Dog Sanctuary, and The Island Sanctuary are advocating for urgent action.

These incidents highlight the need to protect these loyal animals from exploitation by irresponsible breeders and abusers.

The petition calls for a temporary ban on breeding and importation of bully breeds and their mixes to prevent further suffering. Many of these dogs are found abandoned, with signs of illegal practices like ear cropping, and are victims of dogfighting or used for breeding without regard for their well-being.

The initiative aims to strengthen regulations against abuse and backyard breeding, improve enforcement of existing laws, and promote responsible pet ownership and adoption. Importantly, the ban does not affect dogs already in care or those awaiting adoption.

Media support is crucial in raising awareness and driving change. Interviews with Althea Galea, spokesperson for the campaign, can be arranged upon request.

Let’s stand together to protect these deserving animals and ensure their safety and well-being. Join us in this urgent call to action for the welfare of our furry friends.

You can find the petition here.

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Ian Borġ Meets Pete Buttiġieġ in United States

Apr 16 2024

Minister Ian Borg recently inaugurated extensive renovations at the Maltese Embassy in Washington, aiming to enhance accessibility, security, and services for the public, particularly Maltese families and those with Maltese heritage in the United States.

During the event, Minister Borg met with Ambassador Godfrey Xuereb, diplomats, and staff of the Maltese mission, alongside distinguished guests like US Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

The Minister emphasized the significance of the US hosting the third-largest Maltese community globally, highlighting their resilience and cultural commitment, which strengthen the enduring ties between the two nations.

This investment in Washington’s service quality reaffirms Malta’s dedication to bolstering relations with the US, spanning areas like trade, investment, security, and cultural exchanges.

Reflecting on over 50 years of Malta-USA relations, Minister Borg emphasized their increasing importance, from Malta’s early days as a Republic to its crucial international mediation role and recent participation in global organizations like the UN Security Council. Shared values of freedom and democracy underpin this historic partnership, fostering peace, stability, and prosperity.

Ambassador Xuereb outlined the renovation’s scope, including structural changes for better space distribution, a new conference room for diplomatic engagements, and updated security and energy-saving technologies. The Maltese Mission, established in 1967, extends its reach with honorary consuls in various US states, reflecting Malta’s enduring commitment to transatlantic relations.

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Dogs Who Have Friends Live Longer, Research Shows

Apr 16 2024

A recent study conducted by researchers from the Dog Aging Project examined how a dog’s social environment, particularly companionship from other dogs, influences its health and longevity.

The study involved over 21,000 dogs and looked at various socioeconomic factors affecting their well-being.

The findings, published in the Journal of Animal Health, revealed that dogs living with canine companions experienced better health outcomes compared to those without such companionship.

This effect persisted even after adjusting for factors like age and weight. Conversely, factors like financial instability and household adversity negatively impacted the health and physical mobility of companion dogs.

Lead researcher Brianah McCoy emphasized the importance of social support for dogs, noting that the presence of a friend significantly influenced their health. The study indicated that the impact of social connections on health was five times stronger than that of financial or household challenges.

McCoy highlighted the need for improved care and support for dogs, irrespective of their background, based on these findings.

Moving forward, the research team plans to delve deeper into these relationships by studying a smaller cohort of dogs to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of social factors on animal health and well-being.

This knowledge aims to inform strategies for enhancing the health of our furry companions and potentially sheds light on similar dynamics in human health.

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