Rate of animal abandonment remains a critical concern across Spain and Europe. Recent analyses show that approximately 285,000 dogs and cats are collected annually by guardians on state lands in Spain, a figure that underscores the ongoing challenge of pet overpopulation. This data was highlighted during Affinity Foundation’s International Day of Homeless Animals, celebrated on the third Saturday of August each year.
A handful of organizations grapple with this problem, striving to address animal overpopulation and support guardians who depend on intervention to give animals a second chance at life.
Data from the survey reveals that in 2021 Spain hosted more than 1,500 animal shelters, which cared for 167,656 dogs and 117,898 cats. This reflected a 3.5 percent rise in dog intakes and a 5 percent drop in cat intakes compared with the previous year. The network included 247 municipal shelters and 1,334 foster and private institutions. These figures illustrate the breadth of the shelter system, spanning public and private sectors to aid vulnerable animals. [Affinity Foundation, 2021 data]
The outcomes for these animals show a strong inclination toward adoption, with adoption success rates surpassing 50 percent and nearly 90 percent of adoptions concluding in lasting placements compared with around 10 percent that do not lead to a match. Causes for unsuccessful adoptions include behavioral issues, the level of responsibility required of adopters, and allergies among family members. These insights come from shelter programs and collaborating veterinary networks. [National Animal Defense Association, ANDA]
Nubika, a training center focused on the veterinary field, notes that approximately 30 percent of returns can be prevented through solid training for adopted animals and clear guidance for families during the transition. The message emphasizes the importance of understanding breed characteristics, evaluating allergies, and adopting responsibly with full awareness of family needs.
Encarna Carretero, communications director for ANDA, attributes many abandonments to a lack of responsibility. She explains that while life changes such as moving homes or changing jobs are understandable, practical solutions should be sought rather than relinquishing the animal. [ANDA commentary]
According to the Animal Sanctuary, a Madrid region agency linked to the Community Environment Department, reasons for abandonment include job changes, address relocations, and financial strain, with economic pressure cited as a major factor. The Affinity Foundation reports that more than half of the animals entering shelters last year were cats, with kittens comprising over 55 percent of feline intakes. These figures highlight the ongoing impact of population dynamics on shelter demand. [Madrid Environment, 2021 data]
ANDA advocates sterilization and reproductive control as essential measures to curb overpopulation, while official statements from the Ministry of Environment recognize these steps as helping reduce disease incidence in the long term. The Community Animal Sanctuary of Madrid adds that responsible ownership must honor personal freedom, arguing that banning private breeding could push illegal, unidentified breeding and raise abandonment risks. [Ministry of Environment statements]
Nevertheless, the Community Animal Sanctuary of Madrid emphasizes that responsible rearing should be compatible with individual liberty. Absent proper oversight, the prohibition of private breeding may inadvertently fuel illegal trade and abandonment. Ongoing discussions stress aligning policy with humane ownership practices, time commitments, living space, and financial feasibility. [Madrid Sanctuary briefing]
From the Ministry of Environment, the Comprehensive Animal Shelter Center, known by its initials Ciaam, reports success in rehoming about 85 percent of pets collected after abandonment, sometimes aided by microchips that assist in returning animals to their rightful homes. In the first half of 2022, data from Community of Madrid reception centers indicate that more than 3,000 dogs and cats were adopted through Ciaam and related protected facilities in the region. [Ciaam annual report]
Carretero also mentioned the August 1 ratification of the Animal Rights Act, which bans pet trades, strengthens animal collection in municipal centers, and expands inspection and control systems, particularly for kittens. The act also bans circus performances with wild animals and foresees a positive list governing ownership and trade of exotic pets.
Yet the Animal Protection District cautions that new laws may have unintended effects not covered in the bill, such as the risk that restricting store-based animal sales could spur illegal sales or threaten animal welfare and native fauna affected by invasive species. The emphasis remains on responsible ownership, encouraging prospective buyers to engage with Ciaam and ANDA, while recognizing the practical realities of time, space, and cost in pet ownership.
Ultimately, the focus remains on raising awareness about responsible ownership, ensuring proper care, and seeking solutions that balance animal welfare with the freedom and responsibilities of guardians across communities. A collective effort involves shelters, veterinary networks, and policy advocates working together to reduce abandonment and improve outcomes for pets in need. [Community initiative statements]