Authorities discuss management of stray dogs in Paphos forest

On July 6, 2026, the Department of Forests in Cyprus convened an inter-service meeting to address the issue of stray and uncontrolled dog packs in the Paphos state forest. Department director Savvas Iezekiel invited the Police, the Game and Fauna Service, Veterinary Services, and district government organizations to establish a unified management framework. The authorities report that these dogs are attacking the protected Cyprus mouflon, disturbing wildlife, and posing threats to the safety of forest visitors and staff. Public health concerns were also cited, specifically regarding the potential transmission of zoonotic diseases like echinococcosis. While the Forest Department maintains that current legislation allows for culling in cases of documented immediate danger, the Movement of Ecologists – Citizens’ Cooperation has expressed strong opposition to such measures. The Movement argues that culling is an outdated approach and advocates for humane alternatives, including trapping, relocation to shelters, and stricter enforcement of pet ownership laws. Officials emphasize that any final strategy will be legal, coordinated, and focused on protecting the forest ecosystem.