New Dog Law Passed in Cyprus with Stricter Penalties

A new dog law has been passed in Cyprus after ten years of consultations. The law focuses on responsible ownership, reducing stray dogs, and protecting animals, ending the euthanasia of healthy dogs. It mandates the compulsory marking of dogs with a collar containing the owner's contact information. Fees for ownership and breeding licenses are also increased, and dogs that do not receive proper care may be seized. Fines are imposed for various violations, such as walking without a leash, not having a bag for waste, lacking an ownership license or identification, and failing to report a death. Fines can reach up to €2,500. The goal of the law is to reduce strays and enforce the provisions more effectively.