Animal welfare regulations implemented in Spain and Mexico

Spain has implemented Law 7/2023 regarding animal protection and welfare, which prohibits the use of chains, ropes, or other mechanisms to restrict the mobility of dogs and cats to a fixed point, unless required by a veterinarian for the animal's well-being. The law also forbids keeping pets in public spaces without supervision and restricts keeping animals on balconies, terraces, or in vehicles. Additionally, the use of electric, impulse, or choking collars that may cause injury is prohibited. Violations are categorized into three levels of severity, with fines ranging from 500 to 50,000 euros.

In Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, the Dirección de Atención y Bienestar Animal (DABA) has suspended cat adoptions for the remainder of October. This preventive measure aims to protect animals from potential cruelty or ritualistic use associated with Halloween and Day of the Dead festivities. Authorities have advised residents to keep cats indoors and remain vigilant, noting that adoptions are expected to resume in the second week of November.