**NGO Advocates for Ban on Live Animal Prizes in Cyprus**
The Lithuanian-based NGO PI Animal Welfare Initiatives has called for a ban on the practice of awarding live animals as prizes in lotteries and fairground games, citing significant concerns regarding animal welfare. In a statement released on Tuesday, the organization highlighted that this practice remains prevalent during various fairs, festivals, and public events across Cyprus.
The NGO expressed its dismay over the use of animals such as ducklings, baby turtles, and rabbits as prizes, labeling them as “cheap impulse purchases.” They argue that the conditions in which these animals are often kept are detrimental to their well-being. “Festivals and crowded fairs are highly stressful environments for young animals,” the organization stated. Factors such as excessive noise, extreme temperatures, inadequate hydration, and constant handling contribute to immense suffering and can lead to high mortality rates among these animals.
Furthermore, the NGO pointed out that animals won as prizes or purchased impulsively frequently receive insufficient care, resulting in neglect or abandonment. This situation places an additional burden on local animal shelters and rescue groups, which are already stretched thin in their efforts to care for abandoned animals.
“Treating sentient beings as disposable toys or cheap marketing gimmicks undermines modern European animal welfare standards,” the organization remarked. They emphasized that this practice sends a damaging message to younger generations about the value of animal life.
In light of these concerns, PI Animal Welfare Initiatives is urging Cypriot authorities to introduce a comprehensive ban on the use of live animals in commercial entertainment attractions. They advocate for aligning national legislation with European standards to enhance animal welfare protections in Cyprus.
The call for action comes as animal welfare continues to gain prominence in discussions surrounding ethical treatment and rights of animals within Europe. The NGO believes that prohibiting the use of live animals as prizes would not only improve conditions for these animals but also promote a more responsible attitude toward animal care and ownership among the public.
As the debate over animal welfare practices unfolds, the NGO's appeal highlights the ongoing need for regulatory changes that reflect a commitment to humane treatment of animals in all aspects of society.