Spain to sign European Convention for protection of household pets

SPAIN has pledged to sign a European agreement for the protection of pets which was drafted for all European countries to sign by the Council of Europe.

Spain will be the 18th country to sign the agreement, known as the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals. 

The convention introduces limitations surrounding the involvement of animals in advertising or publicity campaigns as well as exhibitions and shows. The second provision stops pet owners from taking their animals to be operated on for any reason other than curative necessity.

This means that no surgical intervention may take place unless it is for the health of the animal. The convention is built around the health and wellbeing of pets and requires owners to be aware of any specific information relevant to the safety and condition of their animals.

In particular, people should know what food is appropriate for their species and what kind of exercise is recommended. 

Another provision is that town halls and local councils will have to stay in line with a set of measures introduced for stray animals. The onus will be on local government to communicate to people the best ways to handle stray cats and dogs in the area.

Animal charities have been demanding the signing of this agreement for years and will welcome Spain’s commitment to the convention.