Rules for keeping pets in Spain

The keeping of pets in Spain is regulated by numerous laws and municipal regulations that ensure the well-being of pets and the safety of the community. It is important to understand the basic requirements and responsibilities of owners to avoid fines and to provide a comfortable life for their pet.

Legislation on the Keeping of Pets

General Provisions

Each Spanish province has its own rules for the keeping of pets, although the general provisions are largely similar. The main regulatory act is Royal Decree 287/2002, which regulates the keeping of potentially dangerous breeds of dogs (ППОС).

Pet Registration

When purchasing an animal, especially a cat or a dog, it is necessary to register it in the municipal pet registry. It is also required to create a veterinary record with entries for all vaccinations and to update the information on the condition of the animal regularly, including any disappearance or change of owner.

Owner Responsibilities

• Providing the animal with appropriate living accommodations and hygiene.
• Preventing any threat to others and avoiding causing fear among people.
• Prohibiting the keeping of animals in cars, on terraces, and balconies.
• Limiting the number of animals to five without a special permit.
• Walking dogs on a leash and using muzzles for ППОС.
• Cleaning up after the animals during walks.

Penalties and Fines

Failure to comply with the rules for keeping pets may result in fines of up to 300 euros for walking dogs without a leash or muzzle, as well as for not fulfilling the responsibility of cleaning up after the pets. In the case of ППОС, fines can reach up to 3000 euros.

Relocating with Animals to Spain

Transport Requirements

• Microchipping and mandatory vaccinations.
• Registration of the pet in the municipal registry.
• Use of special transport containers for transportation.

Special Considerations for Transporting Different Types of Animals

Transport requirements may vary depending on the type of animal. For example, birds must undergo a thirty-day quarantine or be vaccinated against avian influenza.

Potentially Dangerous Dog Breeds (ППОС)

List of ППОС

• American Pit Bull Terrier
• Rottweiler
• Tosa Inu
• Akita Inu

Requirements for Keeping ППОС

• Obtaining a special license from the municipality.
• Using muzzles and short leashes.
• Owners must complete special courses on keeping ППОС.

Pet Care

Veterinary Services

Regular check-ups, timely vaccinations and treatment of illnesses are necessary for the health of the animal. In Spain, vaccinations against rabies and combination vaccines are mandatory and must be updated annually.

Financial Costs

The upkeep of a pet includes expenses for food, veterinary services, insurance and other necessary services. On average, keeping a dog may cost 42 euros per month.

Access of Pets to Public Places

Pets can move freely in public places, provided that it is not prohibited by signs. On beaches, there are special areas for animals where they can rest and play.

Conclusion

The keeping of pets in Spain requires adherence to a range of legislative norms and rules. Responsible treatment of pets and knowledge of local laws will help ensure a comfortable and safe life for both the animals and their owners.