Else Beekman
In the village of Cañamero, in Spain’s Extremadura region, the Guardia Civil has rescued 66 severely neglected dogs found living in appalling conditions. The animals were discovered on a livestock farm with little access to food or veterinary care. Authorities have launched an investigation into what appears to be a serious case of animal cruelty.
The discovery was made in late March after environmental officers reported several dead dogs at a remote farm. Officers from SEPRONA, the Guardia Civil’s Nature Protection Service, found six dead dogs, including three puppies, along with dozens more in visibly neglected states. Some were tied up with makeshift nooses around their necks.
In addition to the dogs, cattle, pigs, horses and sheep were also being kept on the premises. However, the property was only officially registered as a kennel for hunting dogs (rehala) and lacked the permits required to keep other species.
Emergency veterinary intervention
Following the initial inspection, local veterinary services from Zorita were urgently called in. Their report confirmed severe animal welfare violations. Many of the animals showed no signs of ever having received veterinary care. Living areas were unhygienic and several dogs were dangerously malnourished — their ribs and bones visibly protruding through their skin.
The veterinarians also confirmed the farm had no registration or authorisation to keep species other than dogs, which constitutes another breach of Spain’s animal protection laws.
Investigation into farm owner underway
On 14 April, the farm owner was interviewed by SEPRONA officers in Guadalupe. He is currently under investigation for suspected animal abuse. The case has been handed over to the court in Logrosán and referred to the Public Prosecutor for Environmental Offences in Cáceres.
Sadly, cases like this are not uncommon in Spain, particularly in more remote regions such as this part of Extremadura. Despite tougher laws now in place, animal cruelty remains an ongoing issue. Authorities expect the matter will lead to prosecution.
New animal welfare law now in effect
Since 29 September 2023, a new national animal welfare law has been in force across Spain. One of its key stipulations is that pets must not be left without supervision for more than three days. Dogs must not be left alone for longer than 24 hours. The law also bans the sale of dogs, cats and ferrets in pet shops or online, and prohibits their display in shop windows.
Other changes include a ban on circuses with animals, dog fighting, and feeding animals with carcasses or offal from other animals. Euthanasia is now only permitted in extreme cases under veterinary supervision. Fines for violations range from €500 up to €200,000.
Although some aspects of the law — such as a mandatory course for dog owners and liability insurance — are still awaiting full implementation, the law marks a major step forward in Spain’s efforts to combat animal abuse.
What to do if you witness animal abuse in Spain
Have you witnessed a potential case of animal cruelty in Spain? You can report it to the Guardia Civil by calling the emergency number 062 or by contacting SEPRONA, the specialised nature protection unit, directly.
Many local animal welfare organisations and town councils (ayuntamientos) also operate reporting channels. Always try to gather as many details as possible, such as the location, date and, if you can, take photos. Acting quickly can save lives.