Adopting or buying a pet: what the law says and what to ask

Adopting

Animal shelters and council centres have animals of all ages waiting for a home. They come identified and vaccinated, and the staff help you choose the one that fits your life. In Petuki's Adopt section we introduce you to the animals from our partner shelters.

Buying

• Dogs, cats and ferrets can only be bought from breeders listed in the Registro de Criadores de Animales de Compañía (the Register of Companion Animal Breeders). Selling them in pet shops is banned (Ley 7/2023, the Animal Welfare Act, art. 27.l).
• Dogs and cats must be at least two months old when they are sold from the place where they were born.
• No animal can be sold, given away or put up for adoption unless it is identified and registered in the name of the person handing it over (art. 27.m).

Before you say yes

• Think about how many years it will live, the space and time it needs and what it costs each month, vet included.
• If it is a dog, remember it cannot be left alone for more than 24 hours, and that the law provides for a course and insurance for all dogs.
• Ask for the health record or passport, the microchip certificate and, if you are buying, the details of the registered breeder.
• Be wary of adverts with very cheap puppies, without papers or handed over in the street.