Stella's Corner : the Latest Animal Welfare News

stella

Our regular updates start here...

On this page Argos founder Stella will regularly bring you up to date news on a wide range of subjects concerning the shelters activities and any other information that concerns animal welfare in general. Whatever the news and however it affects the shelter and its mission, our supporters have a right to know.



Dear supporters here are December 2016 monthly updates.






Dog statistics for December 2016


Rescued Dogs          
 14   
Linda, Holly, Treacle, Toni, Ollie, Sina, Angel, Vasco, Trudi, Vakia, Star, Joe, Judi, Gem  
Total Rehomed
  15
Died
  1
 Ipsy (parvo)

Cyprus                 
 4    
Joe, Boy, Rakos, Dipsy        
Germany
  10
 Felix, Vana, Nemo,  Iro, Ringo, Libby, Ash, Sam, Tristan, Rose
Netherlands
  1
 Beethoven
Total No. of dogs at the end of NOV 74 + 14 – 16 =  72 (Total number of dogs end of DEC)


cat statistics for December 2016


New             
 6  
Bubble, Squeek, George, Polly, Theo, Kyan                     
Total Rehomed  2
Died
  1
 Thelma

Cyprus    
 2
 Bubble, Squeek                               
Total No. of Cats at the end of NOV 98+ 6 - 3   = 101  (Total number of cats end of DEC)



MONTHLY ACTIVITIES.


Youth Council Meeting on Paralimni dog pound – 02/12/2016


In an initiative with the neighborhood police, the Paralimni Youth Council organized a presentation on the plans for the construction of the future Paralimni dog pound.   The relocation of the pound has been in the pipeline for a long time and with the upcoming mayoral elections, the committee took the opportunity to obtain assurances and commitment from the municipality’s mayor to begin construction at the already selected site.

I was invited to the presentation to offer advice and guidance on the plans they had in mind in relation to the size of the kennels and the layout.  We had already submitted to them the drawings but I invited the committee to the Argos shelter so they could view the actual kennels and layout.  At the presentation the existing mayor, Mr. Pirillis who is also a candidate again, showed up at the meeting and committed to begin works as soon as the elections were over.  Since this meeting, I am told by the volunteers that the mayor has been forthcoming in all their requests for supplies and temporary modifications to their existing shelter until the new works are complete.



Ormidhia Primary School visit – 22/12/16


A couple of days before the above visit, I received a call from the primary school teacher asking if they could visit the shelter. 
It was unusual not to book a week or so in advance, especially so close to the Xmas holidays when we are short of people and need more time to clean the entire shelter. 
However, we made an exception as the 23 children had collected blankets and wanted to bring them for the dogs to keep warm during the cold and wet spells we were having at the time.  
As always, the children enjoyed their tour and during our talk, even the teachers learnt some things they never knew.......








Labrador Rescue – 24/12/16



Xmas Eve at about 18:30pm, we were called out to rescue a mum and 7 puppies, pedigree Labradors that were all huddled under a bush trying to keep dry from the drizzling rain. 
It’s not difficult to guess how these dogs ended up abandoned because the backyard breeder unable to sell the dogs, decided to get rid of his problem and give it to someone else.  
All the puppies and the mother have now been rehomed.  Two puppies rehomed in Cyprus and the rest all waiting to join their German families at the end of January.









Dog statistics for November 2016


New                        
 12   
Muffin, Boris, Destiny, Ringo, Hansel, Gretel, Guy, Luke, Rose, Sally, Connie, Louise
Total Rehomed
   11
 Gem, Theo, Princess, Flavia, Daisy, Rosi,  Martha, Cyrus, Yukon, Charo, Nemo
Died
   1
 Sky
Breakdown
Cyprus            
   4
Gem, Theo, Flavia, Daisy     
Germany
    7
 Princess, Rosi, Martha, Yukon, Cyrus, Charo, Nemo
UK

Total No. of dogs at the end of OCT 74 + 12 – 12 =  74 (Total number of dogs end of NOV)


cat statistics for November 2016


New                
   8
 Juno, Jasper, Nikita, Skye, Lilly, Anita, Jerry, Tom
Rehomed
    1



Breakdown
Cyprus      
  1
 Suzy                                                             






Total No.of Cats at the end of OCT 100 + 8 - 1   = 107  (Total number of cats end of NOV)




MONTHLY ACTIVITIES.



Mosphiloti Council court case – 09/11/16


The case was finalised today after both Mary Anastasi and myself gave our testimony on the case of animal cruelty / neglect against the Mukhtar and his dog handler and now await the outcome of the court’s decision.  We will advise as soon as we know.


Hope Court Case – 10/11/16


Adjourned till the New Year.



Deliberation on amendments to the Animal Welfare Law – 15/11/2016

Following months of deliberations on the above subject, the Veterinary Services finally invited all relevant government departments and animal welfare organisations to a consultation on specific amendments to the animal welfare law relating to the provisions on the District Animal Welfare Committees, The Pancyprian Animal Welfare Committee and the Regulations governing pet shops.
It was a lengthy conference which lasted 4˝ hours but a lot of ground was covered and many suggestions put forward on the required changes.  In particular, CVA’s delegation highlighted the need for:

  1.  An animal Control and Welfare Service in each district – the government unfortunately does not want to adopt this service and instead to give more power to the above committees which we believe will complicate matters even more due to the number of people in these committees; the Pancyprian Committee will be represented by 17 or more members, whilst the District committees will have 9 members.
  2. The Law proposals put forward by CVA were not fully adopted at this stage by the government veterinary services as they said they would look into them at a later stage.  The CVA amendment proposals would make it easier for the law to be enforced but we will not leave matters as they are and CVA media spokesman, Dinos Agiomamitis will write a letter of complaint to the government.
  3. Pet Shop Regulations -  We expressed our disagreement with animals being sold in pet shops due to the cramped and unsuitable conditions they are kept in.  The proposed guidelines prepared by the veterinary services for the cages where animals will be held in pet shops were shocking and when we asked why they had proposed hens to be kept in tiny cages of 40cm in height, their answer was that they took these dimensions from animal testing laboratories!  We were shocked and they said they would look into these dimensions again, revise them and invite us back for further deliberations.
CVA further proposed the banning on the importation of dogs and cats to Cyprus for 3-4 years so that the big problem of stray animals could be controlled by forcing people to adopt from shelters but of course this was denied, as was expected.....


Public dialogue on animal welfare – City College 19/11/16




Green Party / Citizens Cooperation organised a public dialogue to discuss animal welfare issues with guest speakers, Environment Commissioner Mrs. Ioanna Panayiotou briefing on the sterilisation campaign and care of stray animals and Volunteering Commissioner Mr Yiannis Yiannaki, briefing on the draft Law for strengthening the mechanisms for animal protection and welfare.
Greetings from the president of Green Party/Citizens Cooperation, Mr. George Perdikis and the six Larnaca Mayor candidates who presented their programme on the control of stray animals and creation of shelters.



As always, during an election campaign, a lot of things are promised by each candidate and it was no different in this case.  Each and every one told us what we wanted to hear; they will enforce the Dog Law, implement a sterilization programme, the construction of municipal dog pounds, education and cultural change.  The audience was very angry at the present state of affairs regarding the indifference of local authority on the subject of animal control and their handling and exploitation of the animals by those who they commission to offer this service on their behalf.
On the subject of the sterilization programme, one candidate stated that they would get the government veterinary services to carry out these operations, free of charge, thus saving money.  This is, of course, a nonsensical suggestion as the govt. veterinary services are a purely advisory service and have been so for many years.  So, that idea flew out the window.  On education and culture, we stated that this is brought about with Law enforcement and the imposition of heavy fines.  On the construction, and administration of the pounds, we asked the question of how these pounds would be manned.  If they are run as they are presently, which are no more than concentration camps for the dogs, then this is unacceptable.  The reply was that they will seek to cooperate with animal welfare organizations to run these shelters, with proper government funding.   Big plans and big words….


Panayiotis Stavrinides Mayor Candidate for Nicosia Meeting with a representative of Cyprus Voice for Animals – 17/11/16

The stray animal population is over 1 Million


A meeting with Cyprus Voice for Animals representative Dinos Agiomamitis took place with mayor candidate for Nicosia, Mr. Panayiotis Stavrinides.  At the meeting, Mr. Stavrinides was informed of the activities of the filozoic movement and in regards to animal welfare in Cyprus. Mr. Stavrinides who is himself an animal lover, discussed with CVA representative, ways in which the Nicosia Municipality can promote proposals for animal welfare and among other things, the following was agreed:

  1. The Municipality will install in specific areas of the town, feeding stations for the strays..
  2. The Municipality will promote the sterilization of strays in cooperation with animal welfare organizations
  3. To promote agreement so that the management of the Nicosia Municipal animal shelter be given in coalition with animal welfare organizations.
  4. To recommend the creation of an independent service for the protection and welfare of animals.
  5. To inform the public as well as the Municipal employees on the existing animal welfare Law for the proper handling of incidences involving animals and correct behavior towards them.
Mr. Stavrinides added that there are over one million homeless animals in Cyprus, a fact that gives him much grief and in closing he highlighted that he will continue the efforts with animal welfare organizations to promote the protection and welfare of the animals

Let’s hope that somebody means what they say and not just pre-election promises.



Liopetri A Primary School visit – 22/11/16



44  young pupils visited the shelter for the first time bringing gifts of food to the dogs and cats. As always, the children enjoy their tour of the shelter and especially when they get to go into the small dog runs and play with the dogs and the cats.  Education on animal care and welfare is one of the most important part of our work and we are happy to see that many more schools in both Larnaca and Famagusta districts are including daytrips to shelters.










Stella.



Dog statistics for october 2016


New         
  14   
Ash, Ipsy, Dipsy, Lala, Po, Aviva, Cyrus, Daria, Delia, Vana, Charo, Winston, Flavia, Roy                                      
Total Rehomed         
 18  

Died
   1
Breakdown
Died                                                 
 1 Po (Parvo)                                                                                                               
Cyprus
   1
 Buster             
Germany
   17 
Patch, Delboy, Linda, Peach, Piper, Charlie, Finn, Izzie, Rocky, Prince, Biscuit, Daniel, Anja, Ebony, Sugaray, Aladin                                               
UK
  1
 Oshie
Total No. of dogs at the end of SEP 79 + 14 – 19 =   74 Total number of dogs end of October.


Cat statistics for october 2016


New           
  4
 Mogwy, Bilbo, Scarlet, Suzy                       
Total Rehomed
   2
Died
   3
Breakdown
Cyprus              
  2
 Savannah, Simba                                    
Died
   3
 Georgina, Bilbo, Billy
Total No. of Cats at the end of SEP 101+ 4 - 5   = 100   Total number of cats end of October.




Grammar School Nicosia visit – 04/10/2016



On the occasion of World Animal Day, and a significant day in recognition of the importance of animals in our world, the teachers from Grammar School Nicosia arranged the outing for 38 primary school children to Argos sanctuary.  The children interacted with many of our small dogs in the puppy runs and here they couldn’t get enough of our Chihuahua x Pinscher Tia, who loved every minute of their attention.
The children came laden with food for the cats and dogs and at the end of their tour, they wanted to know what other ways they could
help the animals.  We told them about donating their unwanted items to our charity shops, they could fundraise in school in various ways and the class could sponsor the animal of their choice.

 






Presidential Palace Concert for World Animal Day – evening 04/10/2016





4th October each year is very busy for us but this year it was even busier as Cyprus Voice for Animals had organised the concert – One Voice, One Piano – with singer Vakia Stavrou.  The fundraising event was for the creation of a fund for sterilising cats and dogs of low income families.  The donations have not yet been counted as we are still waiting for some from various sources to be sent.  The evening was a great success and on the occasion, CVA presented a plaque to their member societies for the contribution to animal welfare.











Court hearing on the Hope case – 11/10/2016


Adjourned until 10th  November


Court hearing against Mosfiloti Council – 14/10/2016


Adjourned until 9th  November


Cause for Paws at Lithos Bar Oroklini – 15/10/2016



An Argos fundraising evening which included a buffet dinner and entertainment from musicians, Chris Andre and Angela Allery.  
The evening was a great success and everybody commented on how much they enjoyed both the meal and the entertainment. Everyone was generous in the purchase of raffle tickets and with the donation from Lithos bar, we raised 1,000 euros ( 543 euros from the sale of raffle tickets and 457 euros donation from Lithos bar).









Axeritou Council Meeting – 18/10/2016



In a recent campaign which we have taken up with our Famagusta district group to meet with local authorities and enlighten them on their legal responsibilities in the control of dogs and correct implementation of the Dog Law, our first meeting was with Axeritou Council, Vryssoules.
President of the community, Mr. Michalis Kaounas had welcomed our meeting and was interested to hear suggestions and advice on how best to implement the Dog Law with regard to registration of all dogs and the construction of an approved dog pound.  It is well to note that the present pound they have is run by Mr. Demetris Nikolaides ( right of the photo) who is very sensitive on the subject of animals and up to now, he cooperates with volunteers in the area and has never put a dog to sleep and is fully supported in this by the president, Mr. Kaounas. 
We were taken to the existing dog holding area and we explained how it should be extended, the number of kennels needed for the community’s needs and the needs of the incoming dogs.  We look forward to working closely with the council and are offering any support that they require.  A first and great step towards the implementation of our goals in the correct management of dogs and proper services offered to the community.

In the photo from left to right are: Stella Stylianou, Ritsa Hadjisterkoti, Mr. Michalis Kaounas, Andri Isaak, Demetris Nikolaides.


Larnaca Pound investigation – 19/10/2016




Following several complaints about the above pound situated in Kalo Chorio, Larnaca and services two Larnaca municipalities ( Livadhia and Aradippou) collecting their stray dogs, we asked for a police escort to visit the pound.  Having concluded the inspection of both kennels and files, we were not entirely satisfied with some explanations given and we had agreed that our volunteer groups would be visiting the pound on a regular basis to help with rehoming.  When the police were present, the administrator of the pound agreed to everything we asked but a day later, he refuses all cooperation.    These and other dogs were taken out the following day by volunteer groups after we posted the photos.
Further investigation is continuing and I will keep everyone updated on our findings.  Gathering evidence is a lengthy and tedious process, but at the end, you can only be successful with hard evidence and not heresay.







Mars (Pedigree & Whiskas) support – 25/10/2016

World Animal Day seems to extend well into October as many organisations cannot fit all the events into the one designated day.   This year in support of the Cyprus animal shelters, Pedigree & Whiskas have once again donated food for cats and dogs in a ceremony which took place at the Sirius dog shelter in Limassol. 
Mars have been supporting animal welfare for many years and cooperate only with the Cyprus Voice for Animals which is the union of the animal welfare organisations in Cyprus. 

Stella.




Dog statistics for september 2016


New                         
  9  
Fuzz, Iro, Beethoven, Gem, Felix, Nala, Venice, Tia, Jasmine               
Total Rehomed
   15 

Died
   1
Breakdown
Died                 
  1  
Rascal                                                                                
Cyprus

Germany
   4
 Millie, Katie, Sandra, Belinda
UK                        
  8
 Bruce, Cleo, Pepe, Emma, Dusty, Era, Churchill, Aphrodite   
Norway
   3
 Drago, Whitney, Olivia
Total No. of dogs at the end of Aug 78 + 9 – 16 =  71 Total number of dogs end of September



cat statistics for September 2016


New             
  5
 Toby, Stan, Savannah, Archie, Tommy         
Total Rehomed

Died
   1
 Twig (diabetes)
Breakdown
Cyprus                      
  1  
Parker                                                                                  
UK
   1
 Cracker



Total No. of Cats at the end of Aug 84+ 5 - 3   = 86   Total number of cats end of September



MONTHLY ACTIVITIES.


Investigation of dog neglect – 01/09/2016



This case is 3 years old and we are still going back and forth to the court.  There are now two witnesses left to testify – myself and CVA president Mary Anastasi.  This is the case of the prosecution of the Mosfiloti president of the town council and the employee responsible for caring for the stray dogs.   The complaint we received was that the dogs were collected, kept in the cages without food or water until they died.  Argos took the 2 huskies and NDS took the 2 hunting dogs.   On the day the photos were taken, there was already one dead dog.  The next hearing is scheduled for the 9th November 2016 when hopefully we can be called to testify.









Meeting with Diko party MP – 20/09/2016



Cyprus Voice for Animals representatives, Mary Anastasi, Stella Stylianou, Athina Ieridou and Dinos Agiomamitis met with MP Marinos Moushiouttas at the Diko party offices in Nicosia to discuss the upcoming Dog Law reforms that are due to be discussed and approved.  As there is pressure on the House Committee from external groups not to accept certain changes, CVA has embarked on an exercise to meet all the political party MP’s and to enlighten them on these changes and get them on our side as the House of Representatives will be approving the  Amending Law.   This is the first of the many meetings lined up.






Argos Craft Day at the shelter – 28/09/2016


Our friend and long-time supporter, Lorraine Jackson, on a visit to Cyprus, had organised a craft day at the shelter.  The ladies who took part on the day were shown how to make all sorts of crafts such as handmade greeting cards, Xmas crackers, wall pictures which were donated to Argos to sell at our fundraising festivals and fairs.
Thanks to Lorraine Jackson, Sandy Exley, our rehoming co-ordinator for organising the event and to all the ladies who spent the afternoon making the crafts for Argos.



Stella.



Dog statistics for august 2016



New                        
  10 
Ania, Peach, Piper, Finn, Jasmine, Sugar, Spice, Bruno, Aladin, Nala
Total Rehomed
   9
Died
   2
Breakdown
Died             
   2  
Ollie, Carrie                                                       
Cyprus
    1
 Zeus
Germany           
   8
 Tina, Tailor, Soldier, Sailor, Molly, Athina, Homer, Jemima  
UK

Switzerland     


Total No. of dogs at the end of July 79 + 10 – 11 =   78 Total number of dogs end of August


cat statistics for August 2016


New   1  
Bobby                                                                                           
Total Rehomed

Died
   4
 Atticus, Tinkerbel, Mum, Mother
Breakdown
Cyprus
   
                                                 






Total No. of Cats at the end of July 87+ 1 - 4   = 84 Total number of cats end of August


MONTHLY ACTIVITIES.


July, August and some of September are holiday periods for government and most people so we had no active meetings during this period. 

Back to normality this week. 

Stella.


Dog statistics for july 2016


New                                                         
  23       
Roxanne, Martha, Princess, Prince, Molly, Winston, Churchill, Carrie, Paddy, Jemima, Drago, Rocky, Katie, Belinda, Lulu, Rosi, Sandra, Eddie, Rascal, Bailey, Patch, Oshie, Biscuit               
Total Rehomed
   10
Died
    1
Breakdown
Died                    
   1  
Winston (Parvo)                                                                            
Cyprus
    3
 Adamos, Snoopy, Aris
Germany
    7
 Ginger, Lilly, Leyla, Java, Jervis, Laura, Brenda
Total No. of dogs at the end of June 67 + 23 – 11 =  79 Total number of dogs end of July


cat statistics for july 2016


New                        
   1
 Simba                                                                                          
Total Rehomed
    1  
Mack
Died
    5
 Sadie Lady, Noel, Lucy, Beth, Eleanor (degenerative disorders)
Breakdown
Total No. of Cats at the end of June 92+ 1 - 6   = 87  Total number of cats end of July



Ministry of Agriculture  meeting – 04/07/16


In a coordinated effort to push chronic unsolved issues to the forefront and bring about legislation reform in animal welfare, Cyprus Voice for Animals delegation (Mary Anastasi, Stella Stylianou and Dinos Agiomamitis) has pushed for the creation of a “working group” which involves the following government departments:  Ministry of Agriculture Director and Veterinary Services Animal health and welfare department.

In this first meeting the subject of our agenda was for the “abolition of chains and cages”  where such a clause would constitute a provision in the Dog Law.  Dog Law was chosen because it is the upcoming Law now coming up for reform after 5 years of deliberations.
 
Cyprus Voice for Animals submitted  extensive research material of both caging and chaining and we also invited animal behaviourist expert, Stefanos Severis to the meeting, who also submitted his written report and verbally explained as well, the negative psychological and physical effects on animals whose movements and natural expression are restricted.




Dog statistics for March 2016 = 88


New                                   
  17      
Robbie, Boson, Zorba, Paisley, Del Boy, Samantha, Ace, Cody, Cooper, Donald, Daisy, Suzie, Daniel, Summer, Chaz, Blacky, Benny
Total Rehomed
   16
Died
    2
Breakdown
Died                                         
    2          
Missi (parvo), Sadie (brought in with advanced anaemia)     
Cyprus
    4
 Henry, Demi, Nicci, Toffee
Germany
   12 
Mowgli, Troy, Harriet, Leroy, Beamer, Mandy, Tiger, Shaz, Lisa, Lady, Sasha, Meera                                                           
UK




Total No. of dogs at the end of Feb 89 + 17 – 18 =  88 Total number of dogs end of March


cat statistics for March 2016


Total No.of Cats at the end of Feb 91  =  91 Total number of cats end of March


Public consultation on animal welfare issues – 02/03/2016


The Green Party - Citizens Collaboration president Mr. George Perdikis, organised a public consultation with organisations, institutions and individuals concerned with animal welfare. Based on the situation in animal welfare and protection in Cyprus to date, we believe that the Cyprus state and society cannot be proud of their attitude.
On the one hand the state fails to adopt and implement legislation that addresses the essence of animal welfare, while on the other hand the attitude of Cypriot society in these matters remains unchanged.
The Green Party - Citizens Collaboration discussed with institutions and individuals ways of implementing a strategic policy regarding animal welfare. During this public discussion all suggestions were recorded in order to be included in the Green Party - Citizens Collaboration electoral agenda as a policy commitment in the new house of representatives.
Photo from left to right:  Mary Anastasi, president of CVA, Stella Stylianou, General Secretary CVA, Dinos Agiomamitis, media representative CVA, member of Green party, Ioanna Panagiotou, Environment Commissioner, Green party Member.






Lecture at the Bishopric Tamasou and Oreinis – 09/03/2016


CHURCH LECTURE ON ‘WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT ANIMALS’ THE REAL ATTITUDE OF A CHRISTIAN TOWARDS ANIMALS.

Yesterday evening 9 March 2016, CVA representatives, Mary Anastasi, Stella Stylianou and Dinos Agiomamitis, attended the lecture organized by the Environmental department of the Episcopal of Tamasou and Oreinis, Nicosia district on the subject of the ‘The real attitude of a Christian towards animals’
Speakers were His Holiness Bishop Isaiah, who opened the event and stated the value of animals in our society.  Archmandrite Theodokis Faidonos, in charge of the Environmental dept. of the Bishopric, within a very nice presentation, clearly outlined that the maltreatment of animals is a sin against God’s own creations which must be respected.  Further, the sterilization of companion animals is not a sin as their overpopulation holds many dangers for them.
Dr. Constantina Stylianidou, veterinarian, explained the benefits of sterilizing animals for the prevention of diseases thus providing longevity and health and welfare for the animal. 
Police representative Mr. Christoforos Changoudis analyzed the role of the police as one of the relevant authorities to implement the animal welfare Law and presented a few cases that had been prosecuted by the police.  As head of the neighborhood police force in Cyprus, he also explained that one of their many roles is the investigation of animal abuse complaints. 
 This move by the young and visionary Bishop Isaiah is indeed ground breaking and decisive on the Church’s stand on animals and we are hopeful that his example will be followed by other Metropolitans islandwide.


District Animal Welfare Committee Meeting – 23/03/2016

Meeting called to discuss various animal welfare issues and sign cheques to pay the veterinarians who took part in the government’s first re-introduction of the cat spay/neuter scheme of limited funds.  The amount given towards the end of 2015 was €2,000 per district and we are hopeful that there will be an increase for 2016 programme.


Dhekelia Youth Centre visit – 23/03/2016


A group of 8 – 10 year olds pupils, escorted by their teachers, visited the shelter and took several dogs for a walk.  At the end of their visit, our shelter manager, Andrew Brown, dressed as a dog, gave each of the children a certificate with the name and photo of the dog they walked and a bag of treats for each of them.    A big thank you to the staff and volunteer Sue Hannis, who stayed till well after closing time to make sure that the children had a great time.










February 2016 monthly updates.


Dog statistics for February 2016 = 79


New                                                                                    
  4               Charity, Max, Laura, Dolly, Homer, Bart, Marge, Lisa, Burns, Mowgli, Jasmine, Yorkie, Shaz, Moon, Freddie, Ginger, Sage, Brandy, Pinscher, GS, Oreo, Sofi, Toffee                                                                           
Total Rehomed
   22
Died
    2
Breakdown
Died
 2    
Homer, Burns (Leishmania)                                                                     
Cyprus                        
 2
 Dodger, Kira                                                 
Germany  19
 Jasper, Alley, Nicky, Hope, Coco, Brandy, Oreo, Holly, Gina, Ted, Heather, Chip, Jaffa, Brina, Andi, Leo, Spike, Ralphi, Monty      
U.K.
    1
 Winnie
Total No. of dogs at the end of JAN 80 + 23 – 24 =  79 Total number of dogs end of February

cat statistics for february 2016


New                         
   1   
Richie                                                                                               
Total Rehomed
   

Died
   
                                                                 
Breakdown
Cyprus             
      
                                                                                  






Total No. of Cats at the end of Jan  93 + 1    = 94  Total number of cats end of February


Monthly Activites.


Honouring Mary Anastasi – CVA President



Here is another attestation that an animal rights activist is also a philanthropist.  How many times have we heard the remark thrown at us when we fundraise, ‘There are so many people starving and you speak and ask for animals?”  and I can tell you with certainty that it is these people that have given to neither. 

On the 15 February 2016 an event was held at the Presidential palace to honor individuals for their contribution to society and Mary Anastasi was honored in this instance for her philanthropic contribution to the Elpida Foundation for children and teenagers with cancer and leukaemia.  

I have known Mary for a few years now and we met through our activities in animal rights.  Before the creation of Cyprus Voice for Animals, Mary set up an educational organization for the promotion of animal welfare and armed with a permit from the Ministry of Education, has lectured in schools all over the island.  Mary was also instrumental in the preparation of many animal welfare guidelines for government departments.








CVA Conference with Veterinary Services – 16/02/2016





Cyprus Voice for Animals had requested a meeting with Veterinary officials to discuss various pending issues, 16 to be exact.  These problems needed to be clarified and revisions to the Animal Welfare Law proposed.  These points included:


1. Investigating complaints of animal neglect/abuse
  • Dog Welfare Form – this form was prepared in 2005 by CVA and accepted by the Veterinary authorities to be used by their inspectors when investigating animal complaints.  It has been noticed that the inspectors do not use the form and instead use their discretion which is unacceptable as each individual has a different perspective of animal welfare
  • Confiscation procedure ( the term “confiscation’ should be removed from the Dog Law as this and animal living conditions do not come under the domain of the Local Authority.
  • A Protocol on confiscations to be prepared by CVA in conjunction with the Veterinary Services and Police.
   2.  Banned dog breeds – the Veterinary Services are in favor of removing the banned dog breeds from the Law but have had no feedback to their request from the Ministry. 

   3. Dog attacks in general - The assessment of a dog breed or a dangerous dog does not come under the veterinary services domain / responsibilities as this is a
       specialized sector  of trained dog behaviorists.

   4. Electric dog collars -  The use of these is not prohibited by Cyprus Law but we have requested that the Veterinary Services suggest that the provisions in the Law for the
        use of these collars should be stricken out and a letter sent to the Trainers Association of this intent.

   5. Muzzles – Protocol to be prepared by CVA & Veterinary Services as to when muzzling should be allowed.  It was stated that people have used this to prevent their dogs
       from barking and in many cases the dog was muzzled all day long.  This can only be used when people take their dogs for a walk for its protection and for the banned
       breeds that by Law they have to be muzzled when walked.

   6. Central Dog Register
       (a) Microchip registration - CVA suggested that private vets be banned from microchipping if they are not able to electronically register the chips.  It is an easy process
            and decisions need to be taken. CVA will prepare a letter to the Ministry with data of microchipped dogs that have not been registered.

   7. Canine Association Inspection – Dog shows - The majority of the dogs that take part in dog shows are not microchipped or they are microchipped but not registered on
       the central register. A letter has already been sent to the Canine Association on the matter.

       A suggestion was put forward by the District Vet Mr. Ioannou that when government veterinary officers are present at the shows that they check the entrants for microchip.
       This will be requested for the purposes of a health identity and the Canine Association will be charged for this service to be provided by the govt. veterinary services.

   8. Companies importing microchips – the importers to advise the Veterinary Services of the numbers on the packages imported and the names of the vets that they have
        been sold to.

   9. Reinstatement of the cat sterilization programme -  CVA requested the reinstatement of the cat sterilization programme.  A letter will be sent to the Ministries of Finance
       and Agriculture from CVA as well.

   10. Traces – CVA has requested that the Veterinary Services open and review the subject once again.  CVA will prepare a letter and the Vet.Servs. will request for the
          imposition of a reduced amount of €5 for the animal rescue organizations.  They can suggest the use of criteria.

   11. Euthanasia – CVA has asked for the abolition of euthanasia for stray dogs, which is a provision of the Dog Law.  By keeping euthanasia as a form of dog control, it only
         contributes to the recycling of dogs.

   12. District Animal Welfare Committees and their funding - It has been clarified that this fund can be used for any purposes relating to animal welfare and protection and
         not just for running expenses.  Donations can also be made to the fund and the donator will be eligible for tax exemption.

   13. Poison flyer – Pancyprian Coordinating Committee - The Pancyprian Coordinating Committee had prepared this flyer over a year ago and the police have now approved
          for the use of their logo on the flyer.   In the meantime this flyer has been in use in various incidences where poisoning has been reported but now that we have official
         approval, copies of the flyer will be printed and distributed islandwide.

   14. Pounds - CVA has requested that the VS inform us as to which local authorities are operating pounds for the control of strays and the contact details of the
          administrators of these pounds.

   15. Caged and chained animals - CVA’s stand is for the abolition of this barbaric form of restraining animals and for the compliance of the relevant authorities to the
          provisions of the Law 46(I)/94-2013 which prohibits these practices.  Relevant survey was prepared by CVA on the physical and mental effects on the health of the
         animals which has been submitted to the VS.

   16. Administration Commissioners Annual Report - CVA suggested that the VS read this report which contains many negative comments in regard to their service.

   17. Animal Control & Welfare Service - CVA referred to its comprehensive report on the establishment of this service which has been sent to the relevant government
          authorities.  The VS were urged to support this proposal as the establishment of such a service will absolve all of the relevant authorities of this responsibility.

A file of all the above petitions was handed to the Veterinary Services by CVA outlining the order of priority of the subjects.


Aradippou Police Inspector meeting – 19/02/2016


Cyprus Voice for Animals (CVA) delegation, Mary Anastasi, Stella Stylianou, Dinos Agiomamitis met with police Inspector Harris Philippides to discuss new evidence that has come to light on the hell-hole pound in Aradippou.  As the case has already been tried and a light sentence passed, the purpose of our meeting was (a) to request how the police’s case was built and if the photographs were submitted as evidence and (b) to reopen the case with the new evidence to hand.


Kivisili Council meeting – 24/02/2016




As a member of the District Animal Welfare Committee I was asked to attend the confiscation of a dog which had been mutually agreed by the police and the community council after a year of negotiations with the family to implement corrective measures, which they failed to do.  The family house was built within the local church grounds, had no security fencing to contain the dog that was not friendly to strangers and had to be kept chained up all the time.  Families going to church complained that they feared in case a child approached the dog and it could attack.   The dog has been moved to a local council’s pound where it will be kept for up to 30 days and within that time if the family implements the safety measures they will regain their dog. The family has many financial problems and the community council has said that they will fundraise to purchase the materials necessary for the family, which is a very nice gesture.


Police, council & veterinary services (top photo)















Confiscated Pitbull.



January 2016 monthly updates.


Dog statistics for January 2016 = 85


New                                                                     
  26       
Ted, Meera, Henry, Lucky, Zeus, Woody, Roger, Lady, Brina, Andy, Husky, Mandy, Missi + her 7 puppies,  Kira, Sasha, Harriet, Troy, Ralph, Rodney                       
Total Rehomed
   11
Died
    3
Breakdown
Died                                
   3         
Zeus (broken spine), Greco(kidney failure), Chance (tested positive for Leishmania.                                   
Cyprus
    3
 Woody, Coral, Eve
Germany
    8
 Fleur, Ralph, Bessy, Johnny, Opal, Star, Jess, Socks
Total No. of dogs at the end of Dec 73 +26  – 14 =  85 Total number of dogs end of January

cat statistics for January 2016 = 98


New                     
      
                                                                               
Total Rehomed
    3
Died
   

Breakdown
Cyprus                      
   1   
Lily                                                                                             
U.K.
    2
Deedee, Lucky 
Total No. of Cats at the end of Dec  93 - 1   = 92  Total number of cats end of January


Monthly Activites.


Ormidhia Primary school visit – 21/01/2016


26 pupils and 2 teachers visited the shelter for the first time and the children were awed at the site of so many animals.  They brought little food parcel gifts for the animals and had lots of questions at the end of their tour and as always the case, they are reluctant to leave the animals.   The best time of all was with the puppies of course!









Paralimni Pound assessment – 29/01/2016



Following many complaints about the unsuitability of the kennels and subsequent overcrowding of dogs, I was asked to accompany the goverment, Veterinary services and neighbourhood police to assess the conditions and give an opinion on a proposed new pound. 
The veterinary services collating all the information given by Cyprus Voice for Animals (myself), will put together the proposal, with guidelines on the construction of a new pound.







Christos Orphanides 25/01/2016



Christos Orphanides is a high ranking member of the Diko party and following the story of the hell hole pound which hit the newspapers carrying photos of the atrocities carried on in there, he asked for a meeting with me as I had  brought the story in the open.

I met Christos at his office and he proclaimed himself to be an animal lover and was shocked to see the abuse of animals which is on the rise.  He wanted to collaborate with us so that he could bring our petitions to the house and press for the changes necessary.  He admitted that there are many facets to animal welfare that he does not know or understand and this is why he needs us to give him an insight into what is happening so he knows what to argue for in the house.  The more influential people we know, the better chance of bringing about the changes we are striving for.






Stella



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