Animal Party: Most pet shops in Cyprus sell animals without licenses

The Animal Party of Cyprus stated today that most pet shops on the island operate illegally.

According to the party, there are at least 100 stores selling animals and pet food. Only about 40 of them have the appropriate licenses from the Veterinary Services; the rest, according to the statement, sell animals or birds without the necessary permits.

The Veterinary Services have given unlicensed owners until the end of the year to bring their operations into compliance. Otherwise, the sale of animals (excluding pet food) will be prohibited and a fine of one thousand euros may be imposed.

The Animal Party of Cyprus notes that it has long advocated for a complete ban on the sale of animals, particularly dogs, cats, and birds. The statement emphasizes that given the existing problem with abandoned animals and the difficult situation of private shelters, further sales of animals instead of transferring them to shelters is considered unfair.

The party announced that it will monitor the situation and continue the campaign “DON’T BUY ANIMALS, ADOPT THEM.”