Cruelty and abandonment: it is a crime, and this is how to report it

Cruelty

Anyone who causes a domestic animal, or one living under human control, an injury that needs veterinary treatment can be punished with three to eighteen months in prison or a fine, and a ban on keeping animals for one to three years (art. 340 bis of the Código Penal, the Criminal Code). Penalties go up if there is cruelty for its own sake, weapons, or if it is done in front of a minor, among other aggravating factors.

Abandonment

Abandoning a vertebrate animal in conditions where its life is at risk is a crime: a fine or community service, plus a ban on keeping animals for one to three years (art. 340 ter). On top of that, Ley 7/2023 (the Animal Welfare Act) bans any kind of abandonment.

If you see a case

• If there is immediate danger, call 112.
• Guardia Civil (SEPRONA, its nature protection service): 062.
• The local police or your town council's animal protection service.
• Write down the place, date and time, and if you can, take photos or videos without putting yourself at risk.

Articles 340 bis and 340 ter of the Código Penal, as worded by Ley Orgánica 3/2023 (in force since 18 April 2023). This is general information, not legal advice.