Special attention to be paid to animal hotels in Cyprus

The Office of the Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare is preparing a comprehensive assessment of the operation of animal hotels, primarily for dogs. The relevant report is expected to be prepared in the first ten days of September.

As Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare Ilias Myriantheus told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), he discussed the issue with a veterinary specialist seconded to his office.

The report is expected to indicate the total number of animal hotels in Cyprus, while licensed and unlicensed facilities will be listed separately. Based on this information, the authorities intend to obtain a complete picture of the situation and develop regulations governing the operation of such establishments.

Until 1 September, the veterinary specialist works at the Commissioner's Office one day a week. After that date, she will work there all five days, so the report is expected to be completed during the first ten days of September. Myriantheus also said that since taking office he had not received any complaints or reports of improper care or cruelty to animals in places where they are kept or in animal hotels. Another issue of concern to the Commissioner's Office is animal shelters. According to Myriantheus, the establishment of an animal shelter was discussed during his first meetings with local authorities in Paphos. It later emerged that shelter-related problems also exist in other districts.

He noted that Nicosia Municipality is in a more favourable position regarding shelters. In the Commissioner's view, coordination must be established among all relevant bodies and services so that projects for the creation and operation of animal shelters can move towards practical implementation.

Myriantheus stressed that he is still familiarising himself with the situation. At the same time, he noted that animal welfare issues cover a broad spectrum and are directly linked to the quality of life of both people and animals themselves.