We have good news from the Congress of Deputies for ARISTOPETS lovers. As of February 1, the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals comes into force. Regulations for animal welfare that have been in force in Europe since 1987 and which our country did not join until March last year, with their publication in the BOE in October of the same year. Thanks to this convention, cutting off tails or ears, severing vocal cords, and removing nails or teeth for aesthetic purposes or beyond what is medically necessary are prohibited.
The text establishes a ban on surgical procedures for aesthetic purposes or other non-curative purposes. Procedures carried out solely to improve animals' health and well-being may only be performed if a veterinarian considers them necessary for medical reasons, for the animal's benefit, or to prevent reproduction.
Furthermore, if the animal could experience pain, only the competent veterinarian may administer anesthesia.
The Convention also establishes measures to reduce the number of abandoned animals. It states that:
– Dogs and cats will be permanently identified by appropriate means.
– Unplanned breeding of dogs and cats will be reduced by encouraging sterilization.
– People who find stray dogs or cats will be encouraged to notify the competent authority.
Through this Convention, Spain commits to improving information programs to promote responsible ownership of animals. Greater attention must be paid to the breeding, training, trade, and care of pet animals. Training must be carried out by qualified people.
Pet animals may not be given to anyone under 16 without the express consent of their parents or guardians. The use of animals for commercial and advertising purposes, in shows, and in competitions will be regulated.
Dogs and cats may not be given as prizes, rewards, or gratuities either.
With this new law coming into force, Spain is taking a major step toward respecting animal rights. Recently, Congress approved another law under which animals ceased to be “things” and came to be considered living beings. Little by little, we are achieving major advances in the welfare of our ARISTOPETS.