New rules announced on March 29 redefine pet welfare with a series of changes aimed at improving the lives of companion animals. The law will take full effect on September 29, but thoughtful preparation is essential for dog owners and other pet guardians. From that date, mandatory liability insurance for dogs expands to cover all animal species, not only breeds deemed potentially dangerous.
This policy centers on liability coverage. These protections shield the owner when the animal causes harm to a third party, leads to an accident, or damages someone else’s property. This focus on civil liability marks a key shift from traditional pet insurance models.
As with other insurance types, there is a broad spectrum of policies for dogs and other pets. Coverage varies by breed, by the chosen insurer, and by the benefits included in the policy.
The measure applies to all dog breeds, with some contextual notes from the broader discussion of animal welfare.
The initial, basic price range is typically between 25 and 40 euros per year. This is in contrast to the current civil liability insurance for potentially dangerous dogs, which on average costs around 62 euros, according to industry commentary.
Insured capital depends on the provider and the animal breed and will typically cover both bodily injury and property damage. In general, coverage amounts range roughly from 60,000 euros to 300,000 euros.
An Insurance Not Like the Rest
The Animal Welfare Act introduces a notable innovation in mandatory pet liability coverage, a feature many insurers have offered on a voluntary basis for some time.
Previously, typical pet insurance often focused on medical care for the dog or cat, theft or loss reimbursements, or home-bound arrangements during the owner’s hospitalization. The new law shifts attention to liability for damages to third parties and to persons responsible for the animal, with coverage tailored to the potential costs that may arise.
The law text that contains this new requirement states that if a person owns a dog and continues to own it over its lifetime, the owner must procure and keep in force a legal liability insurance policy. The policy should cover damages to third parties and the people responsible for the animal to the level needed to meet the costs set forth by the governing regulations.
Full law details can be cited for reference: citation to regulatory text [BOE-A-2023-7936].
……
Environmental authorities can provide official guidance through designated channels. Caution is advised for readers seeking precise compliance steps and official interpretations.