Schoolchildren in Paphos visit shelter for abandoned dogs — Cyprus Mail

About 45 primary school students in Paphos, Cyprus, visited the PAWS organisation’s shelter in Acheleia, where they met abandoned dogs and learned about responsible treatment of pets. Cyprus Mail reports.

Students from the First Primary School of Geroskipou and the Second Primary School of Paphos visited the shelter. The trip was organised as part of an initiative by the commissioner for the environment and animal welfare. Its aim was to explain to children the needs of pets and the principles of responsible ownership.

Learning about the shelter’s work

The tour took place ahead of World Animal Day, observed on 4 October. Schoolchildren were shown how the daily care of animals at the shelter is organised. The children asked questions, shared their own experiences and also played with the dogs under supervision.

According to PAWS, the visit was emotional for some students: they were saddened to see abandoned animals, but were also happy to give them attention. Some children asked whether the dogs felt well at the shelter and expressed a desire to help the organisation or take an animal home.

More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.

A lifetime of responsibility

Senior veterinary officer Elena Georgiou told the children about responsible animal care, including the importance of identification and sterilisation. She also explained how to safely approach animals and recognise their behaviour and reactions.

Commissioner Elias Myriantous said the initiative is intended to show children how shelters care for animals that have been abandoned or subjected to abuse. According to him, animal protection requires joint efforts by the state, local authorities, animal welfare organisations and citizens.

Paphos district governor Charalambos Pittokopitis said that creating a modern regional shelter is one of the local authorities’ priorities. He noted that the facility for the municipalities of Geroskipou, Akamas and Polis Chrysochous may begin operating in 2027. The PAWS shelter in Acheleia cares for dogs until they find a permanent home.