This Friday, September 29, the new Animal Welfare Law, approved in Congress in March of this year, comes into force. However, two of its most controversial measures, the obligation to have third-party liability insurance for all breeds of dogs or the training course for new pet owners, will have to be postponed due to the absence of its own regulations. The main measures that will be carried out next day:
Zero sacrifice
The new law establishes a categorical prohibition on the sacrifice of animals, unless there is a medical reason that justifies it.
Changes in the sale of animals
This new law establishes a transition period of one year for stores that currently trade with dogs, cats and ferrets, during which they may continue to carry out this activity under new conditions. As of September 29, 2024, the purchase of these animals may only be made through registered breeders.
The rest of the companion animals, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, birds or fish, may continue to be sold in pet stores, as before.
Positive list of pets
The law establishes a "positive list" that will unify and define all the species that can be kept and marketed as pets. Inclusion in this list will be subject to three fundamental principles: that they do not represent a risk to the environment, citizen security or public health. This list will be carried out within 24 months from the entry into force of the law. In addition, citizens will have the opportunity to propose the inclusion of different species.
The dog cannot be left alone without supervision for more than 24 hours
The Law ensures that dogs must receive attention and supervision at least once every 24 hours, for the sake of their well-being.
Mandatory sterilization
The regulations will require the sterilization of all animals that live outside the interior of a home. This measure will have a significant impact on those who keep their pets in gardens, outdoor enclosures or even on properties located in rural or mountainous environments.
Pet ownership in case of divorce
The law does not determine who keeps the pet in case of divorce. The modifications proposed by the Government consider animals as beings endowed with sensitivity, and in situations of separation, a guardianship or ownership agreement will be required. In the absence of an agreement, a civil court will decide, prioritizing the welfare of the animals.
Control of dog barking
The law does not specifically address fines for excessive barking, as this issue is under the jurisdiction of municipal regulations related to coexistence and noise.
Stricter penalties for animal abuse
The legislation has divided the new penalties for animal abuse into three categories. Minor offenses will carry fines of 500 to 10,000 euros, while serious crimes can carry fines of 10,001 to 50,000 euros. For very serious crimes, fines range between 50,001 and 200,000 euros.
In cases of recidivism or if injury or death of an animal is caused, the penalties may include imprisonment of 3 to 12 months, while the death of a pet may lead to penalties of 6 to 18 months behind bars.
