New Animal Welfare Law: What you should know from experience

Hello, I'm Pablo García, and today I'm going to talk about the new Animal Welfare Law. I've been living with furry friends at home for a few years now and, let me tell you, the current legislation is taking us down new paths when it comes to our four-legged friends (and those with more legs too, we do not discriminate here).

Why do I feel with authority to talk to you about this? Well, because I have been dealing with the legal framework that regulates animal welfare and I know that there is more than one point that will interest you if you share your life with a pet. Besides, I like to break down this kind of stuff with common sense (and a bit of sarcasm! because who said the law has to be boring?).

What is the New Animal Welfare Law?

First things first, this new law is here to change the rules of the game regarding the treatment we give to animals in Spain. It is not only about protecting pets, but also about regulating our relationship with them, both at home and in public spaces.

This law, which came into force on March 29, 2023, is not made for the lazy. It forces us to change certain customs and, yes, it touches the pocketbook and the way we understand animal care.

Important changes in the Animal Welfare Law

I am going to list the most important changes that this law brings us. You will see that more than one will make you say: "Really? Does this also apply?"

1. Prohibition of unjustified sacrifices

Until recently, it was all too common for animal shelters to sacrifice animals that could not find homes. Well, the current law strongly prohibits the slaughter of any pet except in exceptional cases such as for reasons of public safety or when the veterinarian deems it necessary to prevent suffering (let's hear it for that!)

2. No more tying up dogs at the supermarket door

Yes, you read that right. From now on, leaving your dog tied up at the door of any establishment while you make a quick purchase can bring you a fine of up to 10,000 euros. So, friend, either you enter with your dog to the supermarket (because it is now allowed in many cases) or you better leave it at home.

3. Zero sales of dogs and cats in pet stores

Here's one of my favorites: pet stores will no longer be able to sell dogs, cats or ferrets. Only registered breeders will be able to do so. In this way, it seeks to encourage adoption and put an end to that sad image of animals in showcases.

4. Dogs supervised 24/7

If you are one of those who travel often or spend many hours away from home, beware. The law obliges dogs to spend no more than 24 hours unsupervised. And if you have other types of pets, you cannot leave them unsupervised for more than 3 days.

5. Goodbye to electric collars

Here comes one of those rules that will hurt more than one of you: no more electric collars and any device that can cause harm to the animal. This includes all kinds of tools that are used to modify behavior aggressively.

6. Liability insurance for dogs

If you have a dog, you're on the hook for liability insurance. That's right, buddy. It no longer matters if your dog is a stuffed animal or a giant Doberman; all dogs, without exception, must be covered by insurance to back you up in case of an accident.

7. No exotic animals

If you had in mind adopting a hedgehog or a raccoon (hey, there are tastes for everything), the new law says no. Animals like these, which are in the Catalog of Invasive Alien Species, are banned as pets.

Penalties for breaking the law

And if you were wondering what happens if you skip any of these rules, get stuck. The law provides for penalties ranging from 500 euros to 200,000 euros depending on the seriousness of the matter. So, better follow the rules.

How has this law affected me?

I'll tell you my personal experience... For as long as I can remember, I have lived with animals. But I have never had to deal with so many regulations. For example, a few months ago I adopted a dog, Lucas, and the first thing I had to do was to take out the famous liability insurance. I also made sure not to leave him alone for more than 24 hours, something that was not a problem before, but now forces me to think twice if I decide to go on a trip without him.

The electric collars, although I did not use them, I think it is a good idea because I see many dogs in the street that suffer with these devices. And let's not even talk about the issue of shop windows; it was painful to pass by pet stores and see those little dogs behind the glass.

Final reflections

The new Animal Welfare Law is an important step towards a better coexistence between humans and animals. It is uncomfortable for some, yes, because it forces us to change old habits. But, in the end, it's about doing the right thing: giving our pets the respect and dignity they deserve.

As this law is implemented, more details and regulatory developments will emerge, so I advise you to keep an eye on how it evolves.