Spain introduced a sweeping Animal Welfare Act that reshaped how pets are owned and cared for. The new rules create a series of responsibilities for pet guardians and set clear expectations aimed at safeguarding animal welfare across the country. This shift reflects a broader commitment to humane treatment and responsible ownership that resonates with modern pet guardianship in Europe and beyond. Source: official text of the Animal Welfare Act in Spain.
What happens if I harm a mouse? That’s addressed by the new Animal Welfare Act
In line with the updated framework, attention turns to how pet owners must behave toward all animals and the consequences of mistreatment. The Act strengthens protections and streamlines accountability for acts that jeopardize animal welfare. This approach aligns with a growing emphasis on humane treatment and public awareness about responsible pet stewardship. Source: official text of the Animal Welfare Act in Spain.
New Animal Protection Act changes that affect you if you own a dog
Below is a concise outline of the key requirements and duties that accompany ownership under the updated Animal Welfare Act. The aim is to guide guardians toward safer, healthier, and more compassionate pet care.
- dog knowledge test: Dog guardians must complete a dog knowledge assessment. It covers three parts: care and veterinary needs, animal welfare principles, and relevant legislation. The test is informational rather than punitive, and the forms can be downloaded and completed online at no cost.
- Liability insurance: Guardians are required to carry civil liability insurance for damages to third parties, mirroring regulations already in effect in regions like Madrid and the Basque Country. This safeguard helps cover potential incidents or accidents involving the pet.
- Time limits to leave pets alone: A dog may not be left unattended for more than 24 hours, while a cat should not be left alone for more than three days. These limits aim to prevent abandonment and ensure animal welfare and health.
- Sales ban in pet shops: Dogs, cats, and ferrets cannot be sold in pet shops. Instead, adoption avenues through guardians or registered shelters should be pursued. Stores may sell only fish, rodents, and birds sourced from registered breeders. This measure supports responsible adoption and reduces impulse purchases.
- Positive listing of animals: The law envisions a positive list of permitted companion animals, with species not listed treated as wild animals kept in captivity and restricted possession, breeding, or trade, unless authorized by special permits. This framework protects vulnerable species and promotes responsible ownership.
- Punishment for animal abuse: The reform strengthens penalties for animal abuse, expanding the range of offenses covered. The penalties for harming animals can be more severe, reflecting a firmer stance against cruelty and broader protection for vertebrate animals beyond just domestic species.
- Feeding restrictions: It is prohibited to feed on animal organs, carcasses, or other remains of animals that have not passed health checks, and using animals as incentives, prizes, or promotional tools is forbidden.
- No leaving dogs on balconies: Keeping vertebrate animals tethered or left unattended in places like terraces, balconies, rooftops, warehouses, basements, courtyards, or vehicles is prohibited, and regular maintenance of pets in such spaces is restricted. Transport of animals while attached to moving vehicles is also prohibited.
- Pet-friendly public spaces: After the Animal Protection Law is enacted, pets may accompany people in certain public institutions, transportation, hotels, and dining venues. They will also have access to public buildings and offices, as well as service centers that assist vulnerable groups such as the homeless, victims of gender-based violence, and those at risk of social exclusion. Source: official text of the Animal Welfare Act in Spain.
- Ban on problematic genetic selection: The law prohibits genetic selection practices that cause serious health issues in animals. It requires registration with the Pet Breeders Registry to enable sale and oversight. Public display and sale of dogs, cats, and ferrets in shops, as well as online sales of all animals, are prohibited. These steps aim to protect pet health and curb irresponsible breeding and illegal trade. Source: official text of the Animal Welfare Act in Spain.
Collars you can no longer wear on your dog under the new Animal Protection Act
In addition to broader welfare goals, these changes reflect a shift toward more humane enforcement and clearer guidelines for guardianship. The Act emphasizes safeguarding animal health and dignity while encouraging guardians to choose responsible, rule-abiding options for pet care. This evolving framework aligns with contemporary standards for animal protection and responsible pet ownership. Source: official text of the Animal Welfare Act in Spain.
The regulations mark a landmark step for pet guardians in Spain. They underscore that the welfare of animals is a shared responsibility that benefits families, communities, and the animals themselves. It is important for guardians to stay informed about the details of the Act and to implement best practices in daily care and compliance. Source: official text of the Animal Welfare Act in Spain.