Spain launches pet subsidies for gender‑violence victims and mandates dog insurance

Spain's Ministry of Social Rights has issued a public draft decree to fund the "Mejores Amigos" programme of FAADA and the ACOPET network. The subsidies aim to provide veterinary care, shelter and transport for dogs and cats belonging to women in situations of gender‑based violence, removing the lack of animal support that can prevent victims from leaving abusive homes.

At the same time, Law 7/2023 on animal welfare makes civil liability insurance compulsory for all dog owners across the country. The central provision applies nationwide, but several autonomous communities – Madrid, the Basque Country, Catalonia, Navarre and Asturias – had already required such coverage, leading to a fragmented rollout while extending legal protection for third parties from dog‑related incidents.