For many, a dog is more than just a pet; it's a loyal companion, a source of unconditional love, and a cherished family member. As a responsible pet owner, you ensure your furry friend is well-fed, regularly checked by the vet, and showered with love. With the recent buzz around Spain's new Animal Welfare Law, many dog owners are left wondering: How does this affect me and my pet? What steps should I take to ensure the best protection for my dog and my family?
Understanding the New Mandatory Dog Insurance
Spain is home to approximately 13 million companion animals, with a staggering 93% being dogs, as per the data from the Spanish Network of Companion Animals (REIAC). The popularity of dogs as household pets has been steadily increasing among Spanish families over the years.
Previously, the national regulation only mandated third-party liability insurance for owners of specific breeds classified as potentially dangerous dogs (PPP) such as the pitbull terrier, rottweiler, dogo argentino, and akita inu. Only two autonomous communities, the Basque Country and Madrid, extended this mandate to all breeds. For the rest, pet liability insurance in Spain was voluntary.
However, the new Animal Protection, Rights, and Welfare Law, effective from 2023, clearly states in Article 30 that dog owners must have and maintain third-party liability insurance throughout the dog's life. This insurance should cover potential costs arising from damages caused by the dog, with the exact amount to be determined by regulations.
The Ministry of Social Rights and the 2030 Agenda justifies this new mandate by aiming to standardise the regulations across different autonomous communities. In essence, anyone sharing their life with a dog will now need to have liability insurance that protects both the pet and the owner from potential unforeseen situations.
Choosing the Right Canine Insurance with Hypotienda
At Hypotienda, we offer two distinct types of pet insurance:
- Liability Insurance: If your dog causes damage to third parties or their property, this insurance will cover the costs. This is the type of insurance that will be mandatory when the new law goes into effect on the 29th of September 2023. Owners will have two years to get their dog insurance sorted out.
- Comprehensive Pet Insurance: Beyond third-party coverage, this insurance also covers medical expenses following an accident or altercation and costs associated with finding your pet if lost or stolen. This policy can be added to your home insurance and is priced reasonably, making it a valuable addition. It's crucial to note that there's an age limit for some insurance covers. Hence, it's advisable to insure your pets when they're young.
IMPORTANT: Pets are automatically covered under the third party liability insurance within your contents insurance (home insurance). This is also the case for dogs, but only for those not classified as a potential dangerous breed.
Pet owners are becoming increasingly aware of the financial implications associated with their pets. With advancements in veterinary medicine, costs have surged, making pet insurance seem indispensable. Not to mention the potential damage claims your pet might incur.
