Spain implements new animal welfare and pet adoption laws

Spain has implemented Law 7/2023 on Animal Welfare, which introduces significant changes to pet ownership and breeding practices. The regulation aims to prevent abandonment and professionalize the sector by establishing a clear legal framework for those acquiring animals.

Key provisions of the law include a ban on private individuals breeding pets; under Article 27, only those registered in the Breeder Registry are permitted to breed dogs, cats, or ferrets. Additionally, the sale of animals in shops is prohibited, and all transfers must be formalized through a contract. Animals must be identified via microchip, vaccinated, and, in most cases, sterilized before being handed over to a new owner.

The law also mandates that public centers and animal protection entities formalize adoption contracts that detail the animal's history and the specific obligations of the new owner to ensure proper integration and traceability.