Residents of Belorado in Burgos have reported that the Clarissan convent is facing a sanctions file related to animal health, after authorities confirmed the existence of a dog breeding facility on site without the required licensing. The confirmation came from the Territorial Delegation of the Junta de Castilla y León in Burgos and was first reported by BURGOSconecta.
Officials indicated that the sanctions process was opened in April of this year because the convent did not hold a zoological nucleus license necessary to operate a dog breeding establishment.
The sisters, who announced recently that they were breaking ties with the Vatican, have already received notification of the sanctions process, which is currently in the period for submitting written defenses and arguments.
On a separate note, the Guardia Civil in Burgos clarified that in February 2023 an inspection was carried out at the convent prompted by a series of neighbor complaints about barking disturbances, the existence of a breeding facility on the premises, and possible sales of puppies over the internet.
During the inspection, officers found that the breeding operation lacked the appropriate zoological nucleus accreditation, an administrative irregularity that was reported to the Junta de Castilla y León for further action.
The Guardia Civil stressed that at the time there was no evidence of animal cruelty or improper facilities, and the animals were reported to be cared for and well attended to.
The Burgos Animal Protection Association, known as Proanbur, voiced its disapproval of the dog breeding activity through a post on Facebook. The group said it had contacted the sisters to express its concerns and to convey its stance on the issue.
Proanbur’s spokesperson commented that animals are beings deserving of protection and that the religious community should be among the first to safeguard their welfare. They also noted that online posts from the convent primarily depict a curated selection of dog breeds for sale.
As the investigation progresses, local authorities and animal welfare groups continue to monitor compliance with licensing requirements and to assess the potential implications for animal care standards at the convent premises. Community members remain attentive to the outcome of the sanctions process and the measures that may follow to ensure proper oversight of any breeding activities on site.