Pet Care in Spain

If you have a dog in Spain remember that it is illegal to leave it in the car (even with the windows slightly open). The police have the authority to break into the car or smash the windows which  is a good thing because a dog can become dehydrated very quickly -  not only in the hot summer months but also in the spring and autumn which can still be very warm here. Spanish regulations also require that an animal is separated from a car driver by a screen and/or restrained by a harness, but it is unlikely that the police will enforce this law.

If you are coming to Spain on holiday and bringing your dog with you, there are now a number of hotels throughout Spain which will accept dogs, cats and birds.  Dogs are banned from the majority of Spanish beaches due to hygiene reasons.You are required to have your dog micro-chipped and could be fined if do not comply with this rule.    It is also advisable to have a collar and a tag on your dog with your telephone number on one side and on the reverse the words “Reward/Recompensa” as you are more likely to have it returned if the finder thinks a reward will be forthcoming. 

Also with the number of stray abandoned dogs in Marbella a collar and tag will indicate that your dog still has a home here.If your dog is likely to get out on its own in Spain it is important to have it neutered. There are huge numbers of stray animals in Spain who need care with the animal charities unable to cope with the demand so please play your part in trying to control breeding.

You will find a number of vets in Spain, and from experience they tend to be well qualified with the latest equipment and the majority of them speak English.  Having said that, it is worth taking out pet insurance here as although the charges are lower than in the UK and Ireland costs can very easily mount up.