Animal-Welfare

Animal-Welfare

Latest Animal-Welfare news and updates about Spain

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animal-welfare

Veterinarians Denounce Spanish Law for Endangering Animals

In a stark critique of animal welfare in Spain, a group of veterinarians has come forward to denounce the current Spanish Animal Welfare Law, highlighting its inadequacies and the dire consequences it has on the well-being of animals, particularly those involved in hunting.

The Plight of Hunting Dogs

At the heart of the controversy are the hunting dogs, such as galgos and podencos, which are widely exploited in Spain's hunting industry. Each year, over 20 million animals are killed by the hunting industry, with more than 2 million hunting dogs being used. The majority of these dogs do not survive their first hunting season, and it is estimated that at least 50,000 dogs are abandoned annually after the hunting season ends. These dogs often meet a gruesome fate, being hanged from trees, thrown into wells, or simply discarded like used objects.

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animal-welfare

How to Prevent Your Dog from Biting or Destroying Furniture: Essential Tips for Expats in Spain

As expats in Spain, many of us bring our beloved pets along, but sometimes these loyal companions can become a source of frustration when they engage in undesirable behaviors such as biting or destroying furniture. A recent focus on pet behavior highlights some crucial strategies to help you manage and prevent these issues.

Understanding Your Dog's Behavior

Dogs, like any other animals, act out due to various reasons including boredom, anxiety, or lack of proper training. For instance, the recent controversy surrounding Tim Lambesis, the lead vocalist of As I Lay Dying, who was caught on camera striking his dog, underscores the importance of treating pets with care and respect. Such behavior is not only harmful to the animal but also indicative of deeper issues that need to be addressed[1].

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animal-welfare

Municipal Council to Subsidize Farmers for Using Mastiff Dogs to Protect Against Wolf Attacks in Saja-Besaya

In a significant move to address the escalating issue of wolf attacks on livestock, the municipal council of the Saja-Besaya Natural Park in Cantabria, Spain, has announced a new initiative to subsidize local farmers who use mastiff dogs to protect their herds.

The Problem of Wolf Attacks

The region of Saja-Besaya has been grappling with an increase in wolf attacks on livestock, causing substantial economic and emotional distress for local farmers. The presence of wolves, while important for the ecosystem, has led to numerous incidents where sheep, goats, and other farm animals have been killed or injured.

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animal-welfare

Madrid Zoo Bids Farewell to Beloved Dolphins

In a poignant and unexpected turn of events, the Madrid Zoo has announced the passing of its beloved dolphins, leaving both staff and visitors in mourning. This news comes as a significant loss for the zoo, which has been a staple of Madrid's family entertainment and educational scene for decades.

The Dolphins' Legacy

The dolphins, known for their intelligence, playful nature, and strong bond with the zoo's visitors, had been an integral part of Madrid Zoo's marine exhibit. Over the years, they had become more than just animals; they were ambassadors for their species, educating countless people about the importance of marine conservation.

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animal-welfare

Concerns in Valdeolea, Cantabria: Repeated Wolf Attacks on Livestock Now Include a Bear

In the rural town of Valdeolea, located in the autonomous community of Cantabria, Spain, local residents and livestock farmers are facing a growing concern due to a series of attacks on their livestock. These attacks, which have been attributed to wolves, have recently taken a more alarming turn with the involvement of a bear.

The Wolf Attacks

Over the past few months, the region has seen a significant increase in wolf attacks on livestock. These incidents have caused substantial losses for local farmers, who are already struggling with the economic and logistical challenges of rural farming. The wolves, which are protected species in Spain, have been targeting sheep and other livestock, leaving farmers with little recourse but to seek compensation and protective measures.

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animal-welfare

Veterinarians in Spain Protest New Regulations on Animal Medications

In a significant show of unity and concern, veterinarians across Spain, particularly in the province of Malaga, have come together to protest the newly implemented regulations on animal medications and other bureaucratic hurdles affecting their profession.

The Protest and Its Demands

On Tuesday, February 11, 2025, approximately 300 veterinary clinics in Malaga province participated in a symbolic closure of their doors to highlight the difficulties they face under the new regulations. The protest, organized by the Association of Clinical Veterinarians for Pets in Malaga (Amveac), one of the oldest and most respected veterinary associations in Spain, aimed to raise public awareness about the challenges veterinarians are encountering.

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