in-cyprus 22 February 2025
The Cyprus Animal Party accused the government of “double-speak” in handling animal welfare issues, pointing to a surge in abuse cases and systematic failures in protection measures.
In a statement released on Thursday, the party highlighted an increase in animal cruelty incidents, including shootings, poisonings, and poor detention conditions, alongside the financial struggles of volunteer shelters.
Recent incidents include the shooting of two dogs in Paphos, the execution-style killing of 14 donkeys in occupied Karpasia, and the discovery of a dog in a waste bin in Peyia, the party said.
The organisation criticised the lack of coordination between ministries and departments, stating that their reactive rather than preventive approach leaves animal welfare issues unaddressed. “The current legislation regarding dogs has been pending in parliament for 23 years without agreement between various stakeholders,” the statement said.
The party also highlighted threats, including the formation of dangerous stray dog packs searching for food and shelter, and thousands of abandoned dogs without identification tags.
“Government actions and decisions move at a snail’s pace”, the party said, expressing readiness to support initiatives aimed at improving animal welfare conditions.
