The Movement of Ecologists – Citizens’ Cooperation has called on the authorities to act after what it says is a long delay in investigating complaints that dogs have been kept on the roof of a house in Limassol district since 2022.
Speaking through their Animal Action Group, the Ecologists said that, according to information they had received, complaints had been made to the Animal Police, the Veterinary Services, the Limassol District Local Government Organisation (DLGO) and other bodies. According to their latest information, the dogs are still on the roof.
Article 5(2)(k) of the Animal Protection and Welfare Law of 1994, as amended, prohibits “keeping, isolating or confining a dog or cat on a roof, balcony or veranda”.
The Ecologists say the complaints are backed by photos and video. The photos show, among other things, poor hygiene, and the videos repeatedly record loud barking and howling, they said. They are particularly concerned that dogs kept on rooftops could be exposed to high temperatures and severe weather.
The Ecologists asked why, if the complaints are confirmed, a situation explicitly banned by law had allegedly continued since 2022. They also asked what action the authorities had taken so far to investigate the complaints and enforce the law. Administrative difficulties, staffing problems or a lack of suitable shelter could not justify putting off enforcement indefinitely, they said.
They are calling for an immediate investigation by the relevant authorities, and for the law to be enforced if the alleged breaches are confirmed. They also want all legal measures taken to protect the dogs, including removing them from the roof where the legal conditions are met. If needed, the dogs should be given a safe, suitable place for temporary care, they said. They added that earlier complaints should be properly investigated and that information should be provided on what has been done so far.
The Ecologists and the Animal Action Group said they would send letters to the relevant state authorities, together with the photos, videos and other evidence.
