Spain enforces new animal welfare law with hefty fines for unattended pets

Spain's Animal Welfare Law, which took effect in 2023, sets strict limits on how long companion animals may be left unattended. Dogs may not be alone for more than 24 consecutive hours, while cats, ferrets, birds and other pets may be left for up to three days. Exceeding these limits can trigger fines ranging from €500‑€10,000 for minor breaches to €10,001‑€50,000 for serious neglect that causes suffering, health problems or endangers the animal's life.

The law also regulates transport of pets in vehicles. Animals must be kept in ventilated conditions, provided with water, food and rest, and secured in carriers or harnesses. Failure to ensure adequate ventilation in parked cars constitutes a severe violation, punishable by fines of €10,001‑€50,000, with the most serious cases reaching €200,000. Minor infractions, such as not properly restraining a pet in the cabin, carry fines up to €100.

All pet owners must also have their animals identified with a microchip, which remains the main tool for authorities to enforce the new obligations.