The implementation of the Animal Welfare Law has sparked intense debate and some confusion among pet owners, especially those who travel in campervans or similar vehicles. This law, which aims to ensure the welfare and rights of animals, introduced various prohibitions and strict penalties.
One of the most controversial points of the law, specifically in article 27, prohibits keeping dogs and cats on terraces, balconies, rooftops, patios, or vehicles without proper supervision. Additionally, the regulation states that animals cannot be tied up or roam in public spaces without the presence of their caregiver.
The question arises whether it is possible to leave a dog tied up or inside a campervan or van camper. The law seems to prohibit these actions if we consider these means of transportation as vehicles; however, Sergio García Torres, Director General of Animal Rights at the Ministry of Social Rights and Agenda 2030, clarified that campervans and mobile homes are not considered conventional vehicles under this law. According to García Torres, these vehicles are adequately climate-controlled and ventilated, which sets them apart from regular automobiles.
The regulation has also been precise regarding the prohibition of leaving animals alone in closed vehicles exposed to conditions that could endanger their lives. However, the law makes an exception for campervans and campers, as long as they are properly climate-controlled and ventilated. In relation to the prohibition of keeping dogs tied up or roaming in public spaces without supervision, García Torres emphasized that if the dog is tied to the campervan and the owner is inside the vehicle, the law is not being violated. This condition is valid as long as the vehicle is parked in a designated area for campervans.
The penalties for violating these rules can be severe. For example, leaving a pet on terraces, patios, or vehicles can result in fines ranging from 10,001 to 50,000 euros. In the case of leaving a tied-up animal unsupervised, the penalties range from 500 to 10,000 euros.
Given the current landscape, and in the event that you find yourself in a similar situation, we recommend hiring the services of a lawyer who can advise and defend your rights properly. We remind you that at Huguet Ostáriz Abogados, we have extensive experience in defending the rights of our clients, and our successful cases speak for themselves.