As pet ownership rises in Spain, new regulations are being introduced to ensure the safe transport of animals in vehicles. The DGT (Directorate General of Traffic) may impose fines of up to €500 for drivers who do not secure their pets properly, as unrestrained animals can limit the driver's freedom of movement and pose risks to all passengers.
Following the pandemic, pet ownership has surged, with dog numbers increasing by 38% to 9 million by 2021, according to the National Association of Manufacturers of Pet Food (Anfaac). This rise reflects a growing integration of pets into daily life, with more dog-friendly travel destinations and public spaces.
The recently approved Animal Protection Law mandates that pet owners must consider their animals' physiological and behavioral needs during transport. However, it lacks specific guidelines on implementation. The Traffic Law emphasizes that drivers must ensure no obstructions affect their visibility, which includes the proper placement of pets in vehicles.
Officials have indicated that future regulations will provide more detailed instructions on the safe transport of domestic animals, responding to the increasing need for pet-friendly solutions.