Foot-and-Mouth Disease: Reactions to Video Showing Animals Killed with Firearms - Veterinary Services Respond

A video depicting the killing of animals with a firearm as part of the foot-and-mouth disease control measures has sparked reactions. The President of the United Cypriot Hunters Movement accused the relevant services of "crimes" and questioned the legality of the practice. The Veterinary Services responded that the use of a firearm is a legal method of animal euthanasia, according to Regulation (EC) No. 1099/2009, as it causes instantaneous death without suffering or pain. It was emphasized that the euthanizations are carried out by trained personnel and are a necessary measure to eradicate the disease, despite the fact that it is not a pleasant procedure.