Cyprus: Pets, strays and why we need our animals

The cat settles on your lap. The dog leans in, warm and solid.

There’s no advice. No judgement. Just contact.

Your shoulders drop. Your breathing slows. Whatever was looping in your head a moment ago loses its grip.

In homes across Cyprus, animals do this quiet work every day. Not as therapy. Just as themselves.

It’s a shame, because while many of us feel comforted by companion animals, the island’s animal welfare tells a more complicated story…

Our...