In a significant shift for animal welfare in Spain, the newly enacted Animal Welfare Law prohibits the sale of dogs, cats, and ferrets in pet shops as of September 29, 2024. This law, initially approved on March 29, 2023, aims to ensure that animals are bred and sold under conditions that prioritize their health and well-being.

New Rules for Pet Sales in Spain

Starting now, only registered and authorized breeders can sell pets, and they must do it through a formal purchase contract. This means that all animals sold should be healthy and have received the necessary veterinary care. Plus, every sale has to be recorded within three days in the Animal Companion Registry. These changes aim to cut down on animal abandonment and ensure that pets are adopted responsibly.

Serious Fines for Breaking the Rules

Pet shops that ignore these new regulations face some hefty fines. Offenders could be hit with fines between €50,001 and €200,000! The law takes these violations seriously, highlighting the push to end irresponsible pet sales and encourage adoption from responsible breeders.

Changes for Pet Shops

As of September 29, 2024, pet shops can no longer sell dogs, cats, and ferrets. From now on, you can only get these pets from officially registered breeders. Many dog breeders welcome this move, saying it helps prevent impulse purchases and ensures that future pet owners get expert advice on choosing the right breed for their lifestyle.

Effects on Animal Shops and Breeders

José Ramón Becerra, the General Director of Animal Rights, is working to help commercial establishments adapt to these changes while still following the law. However, pet shop owners are worried about losing income and the extra hassle for customers who will now need to travel to breeders to find their new pets.

Tackling Illegal Animal Trade

While the law aims to make pet sales more responsible, there are concerns about a potential increase in illegal animal trafficking, especially from Eastern Europe. Becerra assures that illegal online sales will be closely monitored, aiming to shut down channels that enable these practices.

Online Sales and Advertising Limits

The new law also bans the direct sale of pets online. If you see any pet ads, they must include the breeder’s registration number and the animal’s identification number. This is to help buyers verify that the seller is legitimate and that the animals are well cared for.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Animal Welfare Law is a significant step toward protecting animal rights in Spain. By prohibiting pet sales in shops and enforcing strict regulations, the law promotes a more responsible approach to pet ownership and aims to reduce the number of abandoned animals across the country.

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