Limassol, Cyprus. Canine behaviour consultant Nick Ravignat has called for a broader conversation on animal welfare in Cyprus, focusing on public understanding of animal behaviour alongside issues such as strays, shelters and rescues.
Consultant response to recent article
Ravignat, who is based in Limassol and Paphos and works closely with dog owners across Cyprus, contacted Cyprus Mail after its February 9 article titled ‘Why Cyprus needs its cats and dogs’. He said the piece highlighted an important issue but also pointed to a need for deeper discussion.
Emphasis on awareness and responsibility
Ravignat said the central issue extends beyond rescue efforts to how well people understand animal behaviour. He said animal welfare is shaped by “awareness, responsibility and the way human actions shape the wellbeing of the animals living alongside us”.
Divisions and ongoing welfare concerns
Ravignat said Cyprus can appear divided on animal welfare. He cited the work of animal lovers and professionals including veterinarians, groomers, trainers, behaviourists, physiotherapists, pet sitters, shelter workers and volunteers.
He also pointed to continuing welfare concerns, including backyard breeders operating with limited understanding of basic care, reports of poisoned cats and dogs, animals kept chained or confined in cages around the clock, and seasonal abandonment of hunting dogs.
EU measures introduced in 2025
Ravignat said such practices are difficult to justify, adding that animals are still often treated more like property than sentient beings. He referenced measures introduced by the European Parliament in 2025, including mandatory microchipping and registration, bans on abandonment and harmful breeding practices, and training requirements for breeders and animal keepers.
How do you think Cyprus can improve public understanding of animal behaviour to strengthen animal welfare?