Are you moving to Malaga and considering to adopt a furry friend? Whether you have had a pet before or it’s your first time, adopting a pet can bring immense joy. However, owning a pet includes lots of responsibilities, rules and laws, as well as overall considerations specific to your neighbourhood. This guide will cover all about the cost, local regulations and documentation needed to adopt a pet in Malaga.
Spain Regulations and Requirements
There are general rules and regulations applied to all cities in Spain. However, each municipality also has its own requirements and rules regarding pet ownership. In Spain, pets must have a microchip, while dogs are required to obtain third-party liability insurance. Additionally, unless you officially register your cats for breeding, you have to sterilize them. It is banned to keep pets permanently on balconies. Moreover, leaving them unsupervised for three days or in inappropriate conditions is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, pet shops are not allowed to sell any pets or display them on the window. Violating these laws anywhere in Spain will get you a fine ranging from 500 euros to approximately 200.000 euros.
Municipal rules in Malaga
On the other hand, the Malaga Municipal Ordinance on Animal Welfare, Protection and Responsible Ownership limits pet ownership to 5 per household. Apart from this, the city also prohibits owners from leaving their cats and dogs in courtyards or terraces at night. In addition, pets are banned from making disturbing noise while others are sleeping. Last, pet owners must respect the rules of the Malaga community and abide by the community living standards.
Documentation
Spain is considered quite cheap when it comes to adopting a furry companion. Adopting a cat or a dog can vary from 150 euros to 250 euros. The minimum documentation requirements are the following:
- Identification: pets must obtain a tattoo or a microchip for identification and be registered in all databases.
- Vaccination Certificate: Pets must have a valid vaccination certificate and be vaccinated against rabies before moving in.
- Health Certificate: This one is only needed for when you are travelling or bringing your pet from another country to spain.
FAQs
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- Can dogs go to the beach in Malaga? Yes, Malaga has many dog friendly beaches and other beaches allow pets during specific hours so it is best to check by name.
- Can dogs be off leash around tourist areas? No, at the city center, port and La Malagueta, dogs have to stay on leashes and wear a muzzle if they weigh over 25kg.
- Can my pet go on public transportation? It depends, if they are small, they can enter buses and underground if they are in a carrier. If you travel by high-speed train for a long distance, you must buy a ticket for your pet, even if it does not occupy a seat.
- What are my obligations as a pet owner in Malaga? Cleaning up after your pet in communal areas, keeping them away when they look scared and most importantly, preventing them from making too much noise,.