About Me

My love for animals and their well-being started from an early age. I fondly recall all the animals who bestowed a special meaning on my childhood, particularly the stray dogs that made me feel so proud and happy by following me home.

This connection with animals was further fostered by the companionship of my childhood dog, Lulu. Unfortunately, she grew older quicker than I would have liked her to, and eventually became sick. It was this special bond and experience that motivated me to pursue veterinary medicine as a means of alleviating animal suffering and optimising the welfare of animals. It also helped me recognise the potentially profound connection between humans and their animals.

As a result, my focus as a veterinary behaviourist extends beyond treating animals' behavioural concerns: it revolves around nurturing the relationship between animals and their caregivers, while understanding the significant impact it may have on the well-being of both.

Maria Debono, Vet Behaviourist, with her dog

My Journey

  • I qualified as a veterinary surgeon at University College Dublin, Ireland  

  • I gathered veterinary experience in small animal practice in Ireland and Malta

  • I obtained an MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour with distinction at the University of Edinburgh 

  • I achieved pre-certification status as a Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist (CCAB)

  • I became a candidate member of the Fellowship of Animal Behaviour Clinicians (FABC)

  • I was appointed as a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Animal Behaviour at MCAST

  • I adopted Henry, who has made sure I don’t lose sight of the beauty of sharing a life, (and a home with 3 children), with a dog, even if at times it can be challenging!

Dog paw prints and a footprint n the sand, Malta

So if you are looking for someone…

  • Who truly understands and who can support you through challenging times

  • Who has your dog’s welfare at heart

  • Who is a veterinary surgeon and can communicate effectively with your primary vet

  • Who can provide trustworthy behavioural advice