Cyprus: Serious Animal Welfare Issues Highlighted

The Commissioner for Environment and Animal Welfare, Antonia Theodosiou, highlighted serious and long-standing problems in animal welfare in Cyprus during a social theater performance in Larnaca.

The problems include the large number of stray cats and dogs, low rates of tagging and registration, increased incidents of abandonment and abuse, as well as deficiencies in accommodation infrastructure and public veterinary care.

Ms. Theodosiou referred to a comprehensive Plan of Measures and Actions submitted to the relevant Ministries, which includes mass sterilization and tagging campaigns, strengthening private shelters, and creating regional temporary detention facilities.

Emphasis is placed on enhanced enforcement of legislation, the creation of public veterinary care structures, and the establishment of municipal veterinary clinics. Also important is the strengthening of existing veterinary services and the creation of a state coordination and supervision mechanism.

The Commissioner expressed optimism about the passing of the amending Law on Dogs, which concerns local government and aims to provide more effective tools. The law provides for the removal of euthanasia, except in extreme cases.

The proceeds from the performances are used for the medical care of stray animals.