Filenews 4 June 2025
The decision to euthanize three dogs in Limassol, who attacked a young woman and two young children, has caused strong reactions, with animal welfare organizations and the Ecologists' Movement denouncing the lack of transparent procedure and the inaction of the competent authorities.
Rights For Animals Rescue Cyprus publicly expresses its "anger and deep disappointment" at the way the case unfolded, complaining that despite repeated complaints about these dogs, the competent services did not act preventively. As reported, the dogs had been roaming the area for a long time and had been reported to the Police, Veterinary Services and local authorities.
The animal welfare organization questions the legality and validity of the euthanasia decision, demanding public answers on whether an official evaluation protocol was implemented, whether the officers have the necessary scientific training and whether there was a separate evaluation for each dog. At the same time, it raises the question of why the presence of prohibited breeds, such as the Dogo Argentino, is still allowed in the Republic of Cyprus.
They note that, according to the available information, there were no serious injuries to the children from the incident – one was not injured, while the other had superficial injuries – and the girl was taken to the hospital without her life being in danger. The organization points out that if the dogs were really aggressive, the consequences would be more severe.
A similar stance is adopted by the Movement of Ecologists – Citizens' Cooperation, which characterizes euthanasia as a "hasty and morally problematic approach". The Movement emphasizes that once again animals pay for people's omissions, blaming dog owners and the state for the inability to control and prevent.
Among other things, the Movement raises questions about the origin of the animals – as these are breeds that are banned in Cyprus – and calls on the authorities to stop the practice of euthanasia as a first solution. Instead, it proposes the creation of infrastructure, reintegration programs and strict supervision for the breeding and maintenance of such dogs.
Demands of the organizations and the Movement include:
- Immediate cancellation of euthanasia
- Expert and transparent animal behaviour assessment
- Attribution of responsibility for the inaction of the Authorities
- Strengthening control for illegal importation and breeding of prohibited breeds.
The reactions underline that the protection of public safety and the welfare of animals are not conflicting concepts, calling on the state to establish mechanisms that will guarantee the safety of everyone – bipeds and quadrupeds.
