Animal Protection Law and Turtles

The animal protection law may affect our pets, the turtles. The main goal is to eliminate cruelty and animal abandonment in Spain.

Even water or land turtles, which are loved by many families, may also be banned because, according to the Ministry for Ecological Transition, they are animals with a high number of infectious diseases such as fungal infections, and therefore illnesses.

The Spanish government rolled up its sleeves in 2022 to support animal protection efforts. In January, pets were legally recognized as sentient beings, whereas before they were considered "objects" or merchandise. In August, the second round of the Council of Ministers approved a new animal protection law.

The measure was promoted by the Ministry of Social Rights. It is expected to come into force before the end of the year and will include interesting changes aimed at ending animal cruelty in our country.

Animals banned by the Animal Protection Law

According to the criteria established by the Animal Protection Law, the following animals may be banned from being kept at home:

Spiders, Lovebirds, Birds native to other countries, Chameleons, Guinea pigs, Chinchillas, Rabbits, Parakeets, Geckos, Hamsters, Iguanas, Budgerigars, Mice, Snakes, and our turtles

Penalties and fines

The new law goes hand in hand with the reform of the penal code to strengthen penalties for animal cruelty. If the animal dies, this would include 18 to 24 months in prison. Even up to 36 months in the case of more than one aggravating circumstance. It also considers disqualification from living or working with animals for five to ten years.

As for fines, these will be greatly increased. Minor offenses are punished with fines from 500 to 10,000 euros, serious ones from 10,001 to 50,000 euros, and very serious ones from 50,001 to 200,000 euros. Another notable new feature is that instrumental violence will be included as an aggravating factor in cases of gender-based violence where animals are used as tools.

The animal protection law regarding our turtles

Let's hope for now that this law remains theoretical. If the law is approved, those who already have these pets will be able to keep them, but will not be able to acquire more. Current turtles should be registered at the local town hall. The process will be made easier to carry out.

For more information, consult BOE.es.