MVP

Tag: animal welfare

  • Police Investigate Reports of Cat Consumption in Nicosia

    Police Investigate Reports of Cat Consumption in Nicosia

    cat consumption — Authorities are investigating alarming reports of cat consumption in Nicosia, prompted by witness accounts shared by Animal Party Cyprus. These accounts highlight a troubling pattern of cat disappearances in certain areas of the capital over recent weeks.

    This morning, the police confirmed that their Animal unit, alongside representatives from Veterinary Services, conducted searches at two apartments in a Nicosia suburb. The searches were carried out with the consent of the residents, yet no evidence was found that could substantiate the claims of cat eating.

    In light of these developments, police have urged the public to report any instances of animal abuse or neglect immediately. The authorities emphasised their commitment to investigating all complaints thoroughly and responsibly.

    “We will investigate all complaints with responsibility and diligence,” a police spokesperson stated, underlining that allegations alone are insufficient for launching an investigation without tangible evidence.

    The ongoing situation has sparked concern among animal welfare advocates and local communities. As the police continue to monitor the situation, they reiterated the importance of collaboration between citizens and relevant authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of animals.

    Animal welfare is a communal responsibility, and the police have called for vigilance in protecting the vulnerable. “Animal welfare concerns everyone, and through citizens and competent bodies cooperation we can secure their safety,” the statement concluded.

  • Heron — Forestry Department Rescues Trapped Heron in Athalassa Park

    Heron — Forestry Department Rescues Trapped Heron in Athalassa Park

    The Forestry Department successfully rescued a heron that became trapped high in a eucalyptus tree in the South Lake area of Athalassa National Forest Park on Saturday, 8 November 2025.

    • The Forestry Department successfully rescued a heron that became trapped high in a eucalyptus tree in the South Lake area of Athalassa National Forest Park on Saturday, 8 November 2025.

    Birdwatchers in the park noticed the heron struggling with its legs ensnared in threads or fishing lines, likely discarded carelessly by park visitors. Concerned for the bird’s welfare, they alerted the authorities.

    Responding promptly, Forestry Department officers arrived on the scene equipped with the necessary tools to assess the situation. After evaluating the circumstances, they determined that cutting down the dry eucalyptus tree was the safest option to rescue the heron without further endangering it.

    The operation was carried out efficiently, and the heron was freed from its precarious position. Fortunately, there were no physical injuries, but the bird exhibited signs of exhaustion and dehydration due to its prolonged struggle.

    Immediately after the rescue, the heron received first aid on-site before being transported to the Game and Fauna Service Sanatorium. There, it will remain under care until it fully recovers, ensuring it is fit for release back into its natural habitat.

    As part of the recovery protocol, Veterinary Services will conduct blood analyses to ensure the heron’s health is restored. The community has expressed relief and gratitude towards the Forestry Department for their swift action in rescuing the bird, highlighting the importance of protecting wildlife in natural parks.

  • Cyprus Faces Challenges with Upcoming EU Dog and Cat Welfare Regulation

    Cyprus Faces Challenges with Upcoming EU Dog and Cat Welfare Regulation

    eu dog — Cyprus is unprepared for the new EU dog and cat welfare regulation set to take effect in the coming months. The European Union has mandated its member states to implement a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing the welfare and traceability of pets, following the European Parliament’s approval of strict measures on 19 June 2025.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    This regulation introduces rigorous standards for breeding, housing, and handling of dogs and cats, alongside universal microchip identification. The goal is to improve transparency for consumers and foster fair competition among breeders, sellers, and shelters without imposing undue burdens on existing pet owners.

    Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com

    Eu dog: New Standards for Pet Welfare

    The measures under discussion focus on establishing minimum welfare standards for animal facilities. These include requirements for adequate space, proper lighting, sufficient ventilation, and access to food and water. Additionally, regular inspections and annual veterinary visits will be mandated to ensure compliance and proper record-keeping.

    Identification is a central aspect of the new regulation; every dog and cat must have a microchip and be registered in a national database prior to being sold or adopted. This database will be interoperable across the EU, allowing for easy tracing of each animal’s origin and ownership history.

    Implications for Cyprus

    For Cyprus, the passing of this regulation necessitates the establishment of a unified national registry for dogs and cats, linked to the broader European database. The Veterinary Services are designated as the competent authority, responsible for conducting inspections, licensing facilities, and performing annual veterinary checks. Sanctions for non-compliance will need to be effective and proportionate, while clear guidelines for online advertisements are essential.

    Concerns Over Preparedness

    Despite the lengthy discussion surrounding these regulations within the EU, Cyprus has yet to make significant preparations for their implementation. Charalambos Theopemptou, the president of the Environment Committee, expressed concerns about the country’s readiness. He pointed out that while identification for dogs has been in place since 2002, many dogs remain unregistered, and the challenge of identifying the owners of the estimated one million cats in Cyprus remains unresolved.

    Theopemptou emphasised that the regulation will automatically come into force without needing parliamentary approval. “The government has known about it since 2022,” he stated, noting that other countries have been proactive in their preparations. He reiterated that the regulation’s final text is pending a vote in the European Parliament, expected later this year.

    Call for Action

    The situation calls for immediate action from the government, municipalities, pet shops, and breeders in Cyprus. They must evaluate existing legislation, organise their records, and enhance facilities to comply with the forthcoming standards. The urgency for coordination between the national registry and the European system cannot be overstated, as the timeline for implementation approaches.

    The new regulations represent a significant shift in how pets are treated across the EU, aiming to combat illegal trade and improve animal welfare standards. As the deadline looms, the need for effective preparation in Cyprus becomes increasingly critical.

  • Stray Cat Sterilisation Campaign Launched in Cyprus

    Stray Cat Sterilisation Campaign Launched in Cyprus

    Animal welfare commissioner Antonia Theodosiou has announced a seven-year action plan aimed at the mass-sterilisation of the island’s stray cat population, which exceeds 1 million. This initiative is part of a broader effort to manage and control the escalating number of strays.

    During her announcement, Theodosiou highlighted the existing national programme funded by the ministry of agriculture, which allocates €100,000 annually for cat sterilisation. However, she suggested that this budget is inadequate for effectively managing the stray cat population. “We support the mass sterilisation of cats [and] there is already a national program with a budget of €100,000 provided annually by the ministry of agriculture,” she stated, calling for an increase in funding.

    The action plan, developed in collaboration with various animal welfare organisations, outlines a systematic approach to address the issue over the next seven years. Theodosiou emphasised that thorough sterilisation efforts are necessary to curb the ever-growing population of stray cats.

    Concerns regarding the current funding were echoed by Charalambos Theopemptou, a member of the House environment committee and part of the Greens party. He pointed out that Cyprus may have the highest stray cat population globally and underscored the insufficiency of the current budget. “Without proper planning, we are simply spending money without getting any results. This has been proven, as we’ve been doing it for many years,” Theopemptou remarked, criticising the lack of a concrete plan to manage the spaying of strays.

    Theopemptou raised questions about the allocation of the 2025 budget, indicating that discussions regarding the next year’s budget are set to begin in the upcoming weeks. He expressed concern that the government is likely to maintain the same budget allocation, which he believes has failed to yield effective results in past years.

    Elena Loizidou, head of the animal welfare organisation Cat Alert Nicosia, also addressed the committee, noting a lack of substantial political interest in managing the stray cat population. “While the population of stray cats is increasing to unprecedented numbers (we may have reached two million) and while the responsibility for all stray animals falls under the jurisdiction of the state, the burden seems to have been placed on volunteer animal lovers,” she commented, highlighting the critical situation.

    Loizidou pointed out that the majority of strays are sterilised at private veterinary clinics, with costs borne by individual rescuers. With a budget of €100,000, only about 2,000 cats can be sterilised, which she argues does little to alleviate the growing problem. “If the state continues to be theoretically present but practically absent in this matter, thousands of kittens will die every season before they have time to open their eyes,” she warned, emphasising the urgent need for action.

    She further advocated for comprehensive legislation focusing on the treatment of stray cats, suggesting that pet owners should also be encouraged to sterilise their pets to prevent abandonment. “A prerequisite for this would of course be access to sterilisations at zero cost, so that this is achievable and a large number of sterilizations can be carried out,” she concluded, asserting the necessity for a coordinated and effective approach to the rising stray cat population.

  • Animal abuse — Limassol Woman Receives Suspended Sentence and Dog Ownership Ban for Animal Abuse

    Animal abuse — Limassol Woman Receives Suspended Sentence and Dog Ownership Ban for Animal Abuse

    animal abuse — A 77-year-old woman in Limassol has been handed a suspended prison sentence after being convicted of animal abuse involving dozens of dogs. The Limassol District Court has also imposed a three-year ban on her owning, maintaining, or supervising dogs.

    The court delivered various prison terms for multiple charges related to her treatment of animals, with the longest sentence set at three months. However, all sentences were suspended for three years, taking into account her age, clean criminal record, and the context of the offences, particularly the lack of malicious intent.

    The case against the woman began on 17 July 2020 when a complaint was lodged with the police by state veterinary services. An initial raid uncovered three dogs in horrific conditions on her property. The animals were found severely dehydrated and suffering from chronic ailments, with one dog being bedridden.

    Despite immediate veterinary care, one of the dogs did not survive. The other two were discovered locked in a toilet. The distressing findings prompted authorities to escalate their investigation, leading to a secondary search in early August 2020. This search revealed an additional eight dogs, all of whom were also living under appalling conditions.

    During the court proceedings, the judge took into consideration several factors, including the elapsed time since the offences and the absence of any prior convictions. The decision to suspend the sentences was made to prevent future incidents, reflecting a balance between accountability and compassion given the defendant’s circumstances.

  • Cinnamon the Donkey: A Mission to Rescue Cyprus’ Beloved Animals

    Cinnamon the Donkey: A Mission to Rescue Cyprus’ Beloved Animals

    Cinnamon the donkey has captured the heart of Jo Welsby, a devoted animal welfare advocate who has been visiting Cyprus for over two decades. Her recent journey to a donkey shelter in 2024 revealed the harsh realities faced by these gentle creatures, prompting her to initiate a significant fundraising project to bring Cinnamon and another donkey to a better life in the UK.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Cinnamon: Jo Welsby’s Commitment to Donkeys

    Jo Welsby, a regular visitor to Cyprus with 32 trips under her belt, has dedicated twenty years to improving animal welfare on the island. During one of her visits, she encountered Cinnamon, a warm brown donkey with a distinctive and rare colouration. The conditions in which Cinnamon and his companions lived were far from ideal, residing in a shelter that struggled to meet their needs.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Inspiration from a Gentle Soul

    “What instantly drew me to Cinnamon was his gentle nature,” Jo shared with the Cyprus Mail. “He often chooses to be away from the main herd, seeking a quiet spot with just a few other donkeys.” Jo’s emotional connection with Cinnamon led her to make the bold decision to rescue him and a fellow donkey, aiming to transport them to the UK for a brighter future.

    Fundraising for a Cause

    Back home in the UK, Jo has volunteered with the Worcester Donkey Rescue for the last two years, which has generously offered to provide Cinnamon and another donkey a permanent home. To realise her dream of rescuing these donkeys, Jo needs to raise £11,000 (over €12,700) for their transport—a daunting challenge she has accepted with determination.

    Challenges Facing Donkeys in Cyprus

    Despite being a protected species under Cyprus law, donkeys face numerous challenges. Jo noted that while strict policies and adoption programmes exist, enforcement remains inconsistent. “There’s little deterrent in terms of punishment for those who exploit or abuse them,” she explained. Moreover, Jo highlighted the crucial need for island-wide neutering and education to combat the ongoing issues.

    The Plight of Donkeys

    Many donkeys on the island endure backbreaking workloads, inadequate care, and exposure to the elements without proper shelter. Jo revealed that “they spend years in harsh conditions, suffering from injuries and often dying alone and in pain.” The shelters, including the largest one on the island, are often underfunded and overpopulated, with more than 1,500 animals relying on limited resources.

    A Vision for a Better Life

    Jo’s ultimate goal is to ensure that Cinnamon and his companion experience a peaceful and healthy life at the rescue farm in the UK. The facility promises to provide them with one-on-one attention, veterinary care, and a loving team of volunteers dedicated to their wellbeing. “They deserve to live out their days in a caring environment,” Jo expressed passionately.

    Community Support and Ongoing Efforts

    So far, Jo has raised just under half of the required funds, thanks to the contributions of over 200 supporters. While her efforts to rescue two donkeys may seem like a small step, Jo firmly believes that every bit counts. “If I can play a part in giving two gentle, innocent animals a chance at a new life, I owe it to them to try,” she stated.

    How to Help

    Those who wish to support Jo’s mission to help Cinnamon and another donkey can contribute through her GoFundMe campaign, titled ‘Help bring Cyprus donkeys, Cinnamon and friend, to UK rescue.’ Every donation, no matter how small, brings Jo closer to her goal and offers hope to these deserving animals.

    In a world where many animals suffer in silence, with so few willing to stand up for them, Jo Welsby’s commitment to donkeys like Cinnamon shines as a beacon of hope. Her journey demonstrates that with love, dedication, and community support, the lives of these animals can be transformed for the better.

  • Legality of Limassol’s Two-Dog Rule Under Scrutiny

    Legality of Limassol’s Two-Dog Rule Under Scrutiny

    The legality of Limassol’s two-dog rule is now being questioned following a statement from the top veterinary official, indicating a lack of clear legal framework for such a regulation.

    • The legality of Limassol's two-dog rule is now being questioned following a statement from the top veterinary official, indicating a lack of clear legal framework for such a regulation.
    • As the community awaits the ombudswoman’s report, the future of many families’ pets remains uncertain, and the potential for unrest looms large in Limassol.

    Two-dog rule: Controversial Regulation Faces Backlash

    In the Amathus area of Limassol, a new rule that limits households to two dogs has sparked significant debate. Approved by the municipal council, the regulation is scheduled for enforcement starting September 1. However, it has come under fire due to concerns about its legal standing and potential impact on pet owners.

    Veterinary Director Weighs In

    Christodoulos Pippis, the director of veterinary services at the agriculture ministry, expressed his concerns during an interview with the Cyprus Mail. He stated, “There is no clear legal framework in place. To my knowledge, nothing explicitly allows or forbids this measure.” His comments highlight the uncertainty surrounding the council’s authority to impose such restrictions on pet ownership.

    Voices of Concern from Residents

    Residents in Ayios Tychonas, particularly those who own more than two dogs, have voiced their frustrations. Aggeliki, a local mother of three, explained, “Our dogs are not a nuisance. They are part of our family. The idea that we should now give two away is just cruel. It would feel like a death, a great loss for them.”

    Many pet owners feel the regulation is not just unfair, but that it could also lead to unnecessary suffering for their beloved pets. A retired engineer named Vasilis shared his perspective, questioning the logic behind the rule: “They’ve already suffered once. Why should they suffer again because of a vague council rule that isn’t even legal?”

    Mayor Defends the Measure

    Amathus mayor Kyriakos Xydias has defended the decision to implement the two-dog rule, citing a high volume of complaints from residents. He stated, “It is not possible in residential areas to have an uncontrolled number of animals, especially dogs.” The mayor acknowledged the challenges of managing multiple dogs in apartment buildings, which can lead to disturbances.

    Concerns Over Enforcement and Compliance

    Despite the mayor’s assertions, questions remain about the enforcement of the new regulation. Xydias mentioned that the rule applies strictly to dogs and does not extend to other pets, such as cats, which he described as “more independent”. The mayor’s comments raise further questions about the fairness of targeting dog owners while other animal owners may face no such restrictions.

    Additionally, there is concern about how local shelters will manage an influx of surrendered pets should the regulation be enforced. Xydias noted, “If someone has four dogs and they are not registered, they are already illegal.” This statement has prompted residents to worry about the potential consequences for those who do not comply.

    Community Action and Legal Review

    The backlash against the two-dog rule has led to a formal complaint being lodged with the Cyprus ombudswoman. Residents are calling for a thorough review of the rule’s legality and its compliance with both Cypriot law and EU animal welfare standards. They argue that the absence of transitional measures could force many families to surrender their pets, increasing the number of strays and placing additional strain on shelters.

    Animal Welfare Advocates Speak Out

    Lia Stylianou, a former president of Dog Rescue Valley, voiced her disapproval of the regulation, describing it as “pointless” and “ineffective”. She stated, “The stray problem won’t be solved by restricting the number of pets a person can keep at home. How will reducing owned animals help reduce stray ones? It’s absurd.”

    Stylianou believes that the focus should shift to enforcing existing laws and improving conditions at shelters rather than punishing responsible pet owners. She highlighted the inconsistency in enforcement, noting that her own dogs are well cared for, while she has a neighbour whose single dog causes disturbances.

    Legal Recourse for Pet Owners

    Pippis emphasised that animal abandonment is prohibited by law, suggesting that residents have the right to challenge the municipal council’s decision in court if they believe it contravenes their rights. He stated, “If a municipal council issues a decision, the public has the right to challenge it in court, within the framework of the Constitution.”

    Awaiting the Ombudswoman’s Decision

    Maria Stylianou Lottides, the ombudswoman, confirmed that her office is reviewing the measure and that they will intervene if issues relating to human rights or equal treatment arise. The residents’ concerns, coupled with the veterinary director’s comments, suggest that this issue is far from settled.

    Many locals believe that the two-dog rule may infringe upon the Dog Law of 2002, which does not impose limits on the number of pets per household. They also point to the Five Freedoms of animal welfare, which advocate for an animal’s freedom from pain, fear, and emotional distress.

    As the community awaits the ombudswoman’s report, the future of many families’ pets remains uncertain, and the potential for unrest looms large in Limassol.