Document type : article published in L'Avenir (Belgium)
Author : L'Avenir
Preview: A particularly innovative Spanish animal welfare law comes into force on September 29, 2023. From stiffer fines to courses for owners and vaccinations, its main points are:
1-Courses for pet owners
One of the most striking measures in the new law. From now on, dog owners will have to undergo training and take out compulsory insurance. The training will be completely free of charge, and will be valid for an unlimited period. There are a few exceptions, for example, owners of hunting or guard dogs.
2-Severe fines for abuse
Spaniards who abuse their pets can be fined up to 200,000 euros. Provision is also made for prison sentences in the event of a repeat offence or a very serious problem (animal injury or killing), lasting up to 18 months.
3-Animals must be supervised
An animal may not spend more than three days without being supervised by a human being. Otherwise, the animal will be considered to have been "abandoned" by its owner, who could then be fined.
4-Mandatory sterilization
The new law stipulates that all animals living beyond the walls of a dwelling must be sterilized. The term "living" is to be taken in the broadest sense, since the garden and outings outside the home (walking the dog in a park, for example) fall within this definition.
5-All animals must be registered
While only dog owners will have to pay for insurance, all pet owners will have to declare their four-legged companions to the authorities so that an "animal register" can be kept. Owners who fail to register their pets may be required to surrender them to an animal welfare center.
6-Control of euthanasia
This law also aims to tighten control over euthanasia. From now on, euthanasia will only be authorized if a veterinary report indicates that it is the only option available for the animal's welfare.
7-Sales and breeding reserved for approved breeders
Pet shops will no longer be able to sell animals other than fish. Only approved breeders will be authorized to sell pets.
The law also contains other provisions:
All animals must be vaccinated.
The new law authorizes the presence of pets in most public establishments (cinemas, bars, restaurants).
Being considered part of Spain's cultural heritage, bullfighting bulls are not covered by the new law.
