Miguel
- Cádiz
Quite a detailed explanation over at In Spain news website about this subject.. Its now confirmed that working dogs are not included in the new law……
Different requirements for pet and hunting or working dog owners
According to the law, pet owners have a number of obligations such as recording and being able to provide the identity of their pet and providing shelter. Hunters and owners of working dogs are exempt. In addition, pet dogs should not be left alone or on a chain for more than 24 hours. In that case, fines can amount to €10,000. Hunting and working dogs are allowed to live without human supervision for extended periods of time, as long as their owners know their whereabouts and make sure they have a place to shelter.
One of the most bizarre examples is that absolutely no harmful means or methods may be used when raising a Labrador, for example. On the other hand, owners of hunting and working dogs can use whatever means they deem appropriate so that the dogs can do their job.
Spanish hunters’ association happy with new legislation
President Manuel Gallardo of the Royal Spanish Hunters Association says he is pleased with the new law because he also believes that hunting dogs cannot be treated in the same way as pets. They carry out a specific activity and therefore they must be treated differently. He does not understand that opponents believe that hunters must ensure that their animals are not allowed to harm others. “In that case, it is better to impose a hunting ban,” according to Gallardo.
Hunting and working dogs are definitively excluded from the Spanish Animal Protection Act