Becoming An Expat in Spain: Volume 19
PETS AND VETS
Travel
You can only bring a maximum of 5 pets to Spain.
Dogs cats and ferrets must be ISO microchipped.
They must be fully vaccinated and (where appropriate) no less than 21 days before travel
They must be over 15 weeks old.
Their passport or health certificate must be translated into Spanish and signed by a vet
Travel options are are:
Drive all the way – if you do this you will need to consider how long your pet can be in the car at any one time and be comfortable.
You will need to plan ahead with pit stops for food, toilet and exercise breaks if appropriate
You will need to ensure you either have aircon or plenty of ventilation in your vehicle.
You will need to book into pet friendly hotels/campsites in advance.
You will need to ensure you pet’s passport is valid for travel.
If using a ferry, try and book well in advance so that you can use a cabin in which your pet is allowed, otherwise you will need to book a cage in the pet section of the ferry, which can be OK, depending on your attitude to this method of transport and how used to being in such an environment your pet is and if being in close proximity to other dogs might be traumatic for them.
Some airlines will accommodate pets but do your research, look at other owner’s reviews and recommendations and ensure that your pet is well used to such an environment before travel.
There are companies that will offer independent pet relocation services but you should research these thoroughly for reviews from other pet owners that have used them and be aware that this method can be very expensive.
Laws regarding pets in Spain
Pets have been considered sentient beings since 2022 in Spain and laws vary considerably across Spain, so do your research on the province you are moving to in advance, so you are not caught out.
Dogs must always be kept on a lead unless in a designated area and you need to plan ahead if considering walking them on or near a beach as some will allow dogs on a lead during some months but not others.
Clearing up after your pet is mandatory including washing down with water after they have been for a wee in a public place.
Dogs must not be left on balconies or outside without access to shade and water.
Check the local laws regarding nuisance and disturbance in blocks of apartments if your pet can be noisy.
Registration
Cats and dogs must be:
Registered – contact a recommended local vet in Spain for further advice on this;
Microchipped;
Vaccinated against rabies;
Be in possession of a valid and up to date health card;
If your animal is considered dangerous they must be placed on the Registro de Animales.
Pet Insurance
It is a very good idea to seek out a good pet insurance company while in Spain and one that also covers public liability is recommended. Petplan and Protectapet are popular.
Vets
Where your pet’s health is concerned unless you are a fluent Spanish speaker, ask locally which English-speaking vet is recommended by other pet owners. The vet should always be registered with the Consejo General de Colegios Veterinarios de Espana