Emergency Call for Cyprus Shelter: Only 11 Volunteers Left for 1350 Animals

Animal Rescue Cyprus, one of the largest animal shelters in Cyprus, is located in Paphos and currently houses over 1350 animals. While the shelter is home to a wide variety of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, and goats, it is facing a critical decline in the number of volunteers to care for them. A decrease of up to 70% in the number of volunteers has been observed compared to previous years, with currently only six permanent and approximately five temporary volunteers actively working. This dramatic shortage of staff makes it difficult for the shelter to sustain its daily operations and provide the care the animals need.

According to statements made by Sumani Ochse, the shelter has to focus on urgent and vital tasks such as feeding the animals, cleaning the areas, and basic veterinary care. However, due to the insufficiency of the current staff, it is not possible to dedicate time to important improvement activities such as exercising and socializing the animals. The shelter receives an average of 20 new rescue requests per day, and the current small team is struggling greatly to shoulder this immense burden. The shelter management states that they urgently need the participation of new volunteers, especially between 08:00 and 11:00 in the morning and 16:30 and 18:00 in the evening.

The duties required of volunteers are numerous and require comprehensive effort; these tasks include walking dogs, cleaning cages and living areas, washing food bowls, and feeding the animals. Additionally, grooming animals, maintaining the hygiene of play areas, removing waste, washing laundry, and basic maintenance repairs are the responsibilities of the volunteers. The shelter also needs support with socializing animals, fundraising, and assisting with organized events. The gathering of so many animals in a single facility creates a constant and intensive need for manpower in terms of hygiene and organization.

Animal Rescue Cyprus operates entirely independently and as a private aid organization, without receiving any financial support from the state. Going through an economically difficult period, the organization is under two-sided pressure due to limited financial resources and human resources. While no experience is required for volunteers, having experienced individuals, particularly when dealing with large or shy dogs, can facilitate the work. However, the shelter cannot provide the one-on-one training necessary for caring for animals in difficult situations within its current means. Basic instructions and guidance are of course provided to those considering volunteering, but a comprehensive training program is not possible.

In conclusion, over 1350 animals dependent on human aid for survival are in danger with the current team of 11 volunteers. The decrease in regular donations and volunteer participation has pushed the shelter beyond its capacity, reaching a crisis point. The call made is directed not only to the local public but to everyone in the region who can spare time. Urgent action is required to meet the basic needs of the animals and offer a better standard of living; otherwise, the decline of care standards for such a large population is inevitable.