Thinking of relocating to Spain with your pet? From mandatory microchipping to shared pet custody in divorces, Spain’s animal laws might surprise you. Here’s everything you need to know about caring for a pet while living in Spain.
Bringing a furry friend into your life in Spain is a bit like adding a dollop of aioli to your chips – everything just feels better. Whether you’re strolling through the streets with a little pooch or sharing your sunny terrace with a rather aloof rescue cat, pets are very much part of the family here. Spaniards adore their animals and it’s not uncommon to see pampered pups in prams, cats lounging like royalty or even the occasional parrot enjoying a café terrace.
Spain has its quirks – siestas, fiestas and a relaxed pace of life – and looking after a pet comes with its own twists too. From planning walks to avoid the midday heat to getting used to new legal rules, life with an animal here is different – but all the better for it.
Pets in Spain become legal members of the family
From 5th January, 2022, dogs and other pets are no longer considered as ‘objects’ but rather as ‘sentient beings’ in the court of law – meaning they can experience feelings and emotions.
Pets are no longer treated as mere property in divorce or separation cases. Courts prioritise the wellbeing of the animal when determining custody and care arrangements, considering factors like the animal’s needs, the emotional bond with each family member and the ability of each spouse to provide care. Shared custody is encouraged when appropriate and judges can rule on financial responsibilities for the pet’s maintenance.
What you need to know about having a pet in Spain
Having a pet in Spain can be incredibly rewarding, but there are a few important things to be aware of:
Legal requirements
All dogs, cats and ferrets must be microchipped and registered with the local town hall (ayuntamiento). This is a legal requirement and helps if your pet ever goes missing.
Pet travel rules
If you’re bringing a pet into Spain from abroad, you’ll need a valid pet passport, proof of rabies vaccination and possibly other treatments depending on your country of origin.
Coping with the heat
Spanish summers can be scorching, particularly in the southern regions. Make sure your pet always has access to water and shade and avoid walking dogs during the hottest parts of the day to prevent heatstroke.
Accommodation considerations
Many rental properties allow pets, but it’s always best to check first. Some buildings or communities have specific rules about animals, especially in urban areas.
Pet-friendly lifestyle
Spain is becoming more pet-friendly, with dogs welcome on many café terraces and even some beaches and shops. Just remember to use a lead in public spaces and clean up after your dog: fines for not doing so can be steep. Check with a restaurant before you go, as many do not allow dogs. There are specific beaches for dogs in many parts of the coast but dogs are not permitted on others and in children’s playgrounds.
Veterinary care
All pets must be microchipped
Vets are easy to find and generally offer good, affordable care. There are around 6,000 vet clinics in the country and many provide for 24-hour emergencies. Numerous services are on offer, including surgery, radiology, electrocardiography, dentistry, dietary counselling and microchipping.
You’ll also find pet shops, groomers, trainers and even pet-sitting services in most towns.
Animal welfare laws
Spain has introduced stricter animal welfare laws in recent years. Pet abandonment is a criminal offence and owners are now legally required to ensure their pets’ well-being, including socialisation and proper care. Despite this, sadly, there are still cases of maltreatment. Some donkeys on the Costa del Sol are still being worked in extreme heat despite public outrage.
Insurance
Pet insurance, specifically for dogs, is now mandatory, requiring third-party liability coverage for damages caused by the dog, regardless of breed. This is a result of the Animal Protection, Rights and Welfare Law, enacted in 2023. Previously, such insurance was only mandatory for potentially dangerous dogs. The insurance should cover potential costs arising from damages caused by the dog, with the exact amount to be determined by regulations.
Dangerous breeds
Owning a potentially dangerous dog breed, known as PPP (perros potencialmente peligrosos), requires obtaining a license and insurance and adhering to specific regulations. These regulations include keeping the dog on a leash and muzzled in public and only allowing one individual to handle the dog at a time. The license is valid for five years and applies throughout Spain.
Neighbours and pets
You are free to have pets at home as long as they don’t bother the neighbours. Complaints about your pet can be made to the local Town Hall and/or the Police. It’s much better, of course, if you and the neighbour can discuss the problem amicably but this isn’t always possible. A dog in the garden and not tied up must be signalled by a sign, “Beware of the Dog”, “Cuidado con el Perro”.
Conclusion
All in all, Spain is a fantastic place to have a pet, as long as you’re prepared and stay informed about local regulations and the needs of your animal companion.
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