A new crowdfunding campaign is calling on animal lovers across Malta to help fund a dedicated rescue vehicle that will allow more stray dogs in Sicily to be rescued and rehomed in Malta.
The initiative, launched on Zaar by The Adopt a Stray Foundation and spearheaded by Hill’s Pet Nutrition Malta, aims to raise €20,000 by the end of June.
At the heart of the mission is animal welfare volunteer Theresa, who has spent years travelling between Malta and Sicily to rescue stray and abandoned dogs.
Using her own personal vehicle, Theresa regularly transports rescued dogs back to Malta, where they are placed into loving homes through local adoption efforts.
However, organisers say the growing scale of the rescue work has made it increasingly difficult to continue operating with limited transport space and resources.
“Theresa has been doing this in her own time, in her own car, for years,” Isaac from VJ Salomone explained. “We turned to crowdfunding because the mission has grown beyond what one person and one vehicle can manage. With a proper rescue vehicle, she can bring more dogs back to Malta per trip and keep the rescues running long term.”
The campaign hopes to fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Transporter, which would provide safer and more comfortable transport conditions for the animals thanks to increased space and improved ventilation. The funding target also covers insurance, registration costs, and an initial supply run of essentials including food, crates and blankets.
Hill’s Pet Nutrition Malta already supports the rescue operation by donating food supplies for the dogs in Theresa’s care, and the campaign also includes rewards for donors who contribute towards the cause.
Supporters will receive Hill’s-branded thank-you gifts depending on the amount donated, including items such as poop bag holders, food bowls and water bottles. Those pledging €100 or more will receive a full Hill’s PR pack featuring a selection of pet products and branded merchandise.
The campaign is currently live and accepting donations until the end of June.
