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.
