The highly anticipated Animal Welfare Law in Spain, officially known as the “Law for the Protection of the Rights and Well-being of Animals,” initially faced some ambiguities upon its introduction. Crucial aspects such as dog insurance, the responsible dog ownership course, detailed regulations for breeders, and the precise positive list were not yet in effect pending the final regulatory development.
More than two years after the initial Animal Rights Law was passed, the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs, and the 2030 Agenda, led by Pablo Bustinduy, has finally published the draft of a Royal Decree. This decree aims to further specify and establish these regulations. In addition to provisions on pet identification, mandatory insurance, and the annual ITV for dogs, cats, and ferrets, the contents of the mandatory responsible ownership course have now been defined. This course is intended for all individuals wishing to own a dog in Spain. However, not every citizen will be required to take it. Who exactly remains exempt from this obligation?
The Mandatory Course for Most: What You Need to Know
Article 8 of the new draft regulation clarifies that every person wishing to own a dog must complete a responsible ownership course. This training, offered free of charge, will be accessible via an online platform provided by the Ministry. Alternatively, the course can also be offered by public administrations or authorized entities.
The course has a minimum duration of four teaching hours. The content covers a wide range of relevant topics: from the economic costs of dog ownership to advice on selecting the right pet based on family environment, its size, and character, as well as essential aspects of training, health care, and veterinary attention. To obtain the official accreditation certificate, passing a final exam is required. The draft stipulates that the course only needs to be completed once in a lifetime and is valid throughout the entire Spanish territory. Furthermore, local institutions are expected to facilitate access to the course for individuals without digital means.
The Exceptions: Who is Exempt from the Course
Although the new regulation is mandatory for the majority of citizens, it provides for three clear exceptions that do not have to undergo this procedure:
- Veterinarians: Individuals with a degree in veterinary medicine are exempt from the course. This is logical, as their professional training already extensively covers the necessary knowledge for responsible animal ownership.
- Animal Behavior Experts: Those registered in the Registry of Animal Behavior Professionals are also exempt from the training. This registry would include ethologists, dog trainers, and other recognized specialists in the field of dog behavior.
- Registered Breeders: Persons registered in the official breeders’ registry are also exempt from the course requirement. Since their activity revolves intensely around the care and breeding of dogs, it is assumed that they already possess the necessary expertise and preparation.
Furthermore, the Animal Welfare Law does not apply to dogs used for regulated professional activities. Owners of hunting dogs, shepherd dogs, or livestock guardian dogs, as well as dogs belonging to the armed forces, state security forces, or those intended for rescue purposes, are also not required to complete the course.
