Animal Welfare Law comes into force in Spain: Everything you need to know about the new regulations

From Friday September 29, a multitude of new rules regarding pet ownership and animal rights comes into effect in Spain

New regulations which come into effect on September 29

1. From Friday, all dogs, cats and ferrets will have to be registered to their owner (microchipped), or to an animal shelter in the case of abandoned animals.
2. Cats will have to be sterilised before they reach six months of age.
3. Animals can only be euthanised if there is a clear medical reason authorised by a vet.
4. Pet stores, physical or online, will have a period of one year, until September 29, 2024, to stop selling dogs, cats and ferrets, although they may continue selling some birds and small mammals such as hamsters or guinea pigs.
5. So-called punishment collars for dogs, such as choke chains or electric shock collars, are banned.
6. Cats can be left home alone for a maximum of three days; this period is reduced to 24 hours in the case of dogs.
7. Cock fighting and dog fighting are banned and punishable with a fine of up to 200,000 euros.
8. Only registered breeders are allowed to breed animals. So-called backyard breeders can now be fined up to 200,000 euros.
9. Live animals can no longer be used to perform in circuses.
10. From now on, pets must be allowed to access means of transport, establishments and public spaces, hotels, restaurants and bars.

Rules that have been postponed

1. Civil liability insurance for dogs.
2. Mandatory online training course for dog owners.
3. List of animals allowed to be kept as pets.
4. The creation of a breeder registry.
5. Regulations governing zoos.

Now read: Number of pets in the home limited by new Animal Welfare Law in Spain