Sale of dogs, cats and ferrets banned in pet shops throughout Spain
From this week, any stores in Spain caught selling these animals face fines of up to 200,000 euros
There is now a blanket ban across Spain on selling dogs, cats or ferrets in pet shops and any stores found to be in breach will be issued fines ranging from 50,001 to 200,000 euros. Furthermore, these animals can no longer be displayed in shops “for commercial purposes.”
The new rule is part of the Law on the Protection of Animal Rights and Welfare that came into force on March 29 last year. Most of the regulations were enforced within six months, but pet stores were given a year to make the necessary changes. That grace period ended on Sunday September 29.
From now on, only officially registered breeders will be allowed to sell dogs, cats and ferrets and all sales must be reported to the Pet Registry within three working days.
The law also specifies that animals sold by breeders must be “in good health and with the mandatory inoculations for age and species.”
Pet insurance
The law has a few sticking points, such as third party liability insurance and the mandatory training course for dog owners. Several details still have to be ironed out so it’s unlikely these requirements will be brought into effect before 2025.
With regard to the training course, the government has hinted that only new pet owners will have to take it. The course will be free and online and once passed, the qualification will last indefinitely.
Also from next year, animal owners will be asked to take out and maintain third-party liability insurance, valid for the entire life of the pet, for an amount of 100,000 euros; home insurance policies that cover pets will also be valid.
Image: Pexels
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