Cyprus is currently unprepared for the new EU dog and cat welfare regulation, which mandates comprehensive reforms across member states. Approved by the European Parliament on 19 June 2025, this regulation sets forth stringent rules on breeding, housing, and handling of pets, alongside the requirement for universal microchip identification to enhance traceability and combat illegal trade.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Dog and: New Standards for Animal Welfare
The EU’s initiative aims to establish minimum welfare standards for facilities housing dogs and cats, including provisions for adequate space, lighting, ventilation, and access to food and water. Regular inspections and annual veterinary visits are also stipulated to ensure compliance.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Microchip Identification and Registration
Each dog and cat will need to be microchipped and registered in a national database prior to sale or adoption. These databases are to be interconnected across the EU to facilitate the tracking of animals’ origins and movements.
Online Advertising Regulations
In addition to welfare standards, the regulation proposes changes to online advertisements. A free European verification system will be created to allow potential adopters or buyers to confirm that an animal is legally registered, ensuring transparency in the adoption and sales processes.
Implications for Cyprus
For Cyprus, the implications are significant. The country must establish a unified national registry for dogs and cats that connects to the European system. The Veterinary Services are designated as the authority responsible for inspections, licensing of facilities, and conducting annual veterinary checks. Furthermore, clear sanctions must be implemented, alongside amendments to existing legislation, such as the Animal Protection and Welfare Law.
Concerns from Local Officials
Charalambos Theopemptou, president of the Environment Committee, expressed concerns about Cyprus’s readiness to implement these regulations. He pointed out that the government has been aware of the upcoming changes since 2022 but has made little progress towards compliance. “In Cyprus, we have one million cats,” he noted, highlighting the difficulty in identifying ownership for many of them.
Challenges Ahead
While microchip identification for dogs has been in place since 2002, many dogs still lack proper registration. The urgency for Cyprus to comply with the new EU standards is evident, as the regulation will automatically apply without needing further parliamentary approval. Theopemptou stated, “The regulation does not need to pass through Parliament to be introduced into our legislation. It is applied automatically.”
Preparation for Change
With the EU regulation set to take effect, it is imperative for the government, municipalities, and pet-related businesses to begin preparing. Legislative adjustments, improved record-keeping, and facility enhancements are necessary steps for compliance with the future national registry and the European system.
As the situation evolves, Cyprus must act swiftly to ensure that it meets the upcoming standards set forth by the EU. The timeline for these changes is tight, with further discussions anticipated in the European Parliament by the end of the year.
