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After years of delays and shifting timelines, Nicosia’s first regional dog shelter is expected to secure licensing and begin operations in the first half of 2025, according to Antonia Theodosiou, Commissioner for Environment and Animal Welfare.
The shelter, designed to serve the municipalities of Nicosia, Strovolos, Lakatamia, Agios Dometios, Engomi, and Aglantzia, has been a long time coming. Originally proposed in 2019 as part of a plan to establish regional shelters across Cyprus, the project was slated for completion within 18 months. However, progress stalled until 2022, when a renewed commitment came with €1.5 million in funding to support five regional shelters, plus an additional facility for semi-mountainous areas.
Despite the funding, little headway had been made by the end of 2024, prompting Theodosiou’s office to intensify its efforts. “We’ve made it a priority to support and assist the creation of at least the shelter for the Nicosia municipalities,” she explained, adding that a coordination meeting with architects, Strovolos Municipality, and shelter managers will take place in early January to finalize plans.
A Critical Step for Stray Management
Once operational, the shelter is expected to play a transformative role in managing stray dogs in the region. Theodosiou emphasized that local governments are legally obligated to maintain shelters and animal police units, and she believes that licensed regional shelters will significantly improve stray dog management.
“This will help 1,000%,” she said, underscoring the need for local governments to fulfill their responsibilities.
Addressing Sterilization Efforts
The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of sterilization programs in controlling the stray population. While state grants are available for these initiatives, Theodosiou’s office aims to assess whether current efforts are sufficient or if additional funding is needed to expand the program.
As the long-awaited shelter project moves closer to reality, animal welfare advocates are hopeful that 2025 will mark a turning point for stray dog management in Nicosia and beyond.
With information from CNA
