Most pet shops in Cyprus operate illegally when it comes to selling animals, the Animal Party Cyprus has claimed.
The party said in a statement that at least 100 shops sell animals and pet food across Cyprus, but only 40 hold the required licences from Veterinary Services.
The rest operate illegally as far as selling animals or birds is concerned, according to the party.
Veterinary Services have given unlicensed shops until the end of the year to comply, the party added. Shops that fail to secure the necessary permits will be banned from selling animals — though they can still sell food — and could face a €1,000 fine.
The Animal Party said it has consistently called for a complete ban on selling animals, particularly dogs, cats and birds, whilst private shelters are overflowing and Cyprus faces a problem with abandoned animals.
According to the party, it is unfair to continue selling animals instead of encouraging adoption of innocent animals that have spent two, three or five years in shelters.
The party said it will monitor the situation and continue its campaign urging people not to buy animals but to adopt them instead.