Resumen rápido
Complete guide to the mandatory registration of dogs, cats and ferrets in the municipal census. Animal Welfare Act 7/2023: deadlines, documents and fines.
What is the Pet Census?
The Companion Animals Census is a municipal and regional register where you must enrol your pet. Since the entry into force of Act 7/2023 on the Protection of the Rights and Welfare of Animals, registration is mandatory for all dogs, cats and ferrets in Spain.
Is it really mandatory?
Yes. The new law states that every companion animal must be registered in the register of its autonomous community. Non-compliance may lead to fines ranging from €500 to €10,000 depending on the autonomous community.
Which animals must be registered?
| Animal | Mandatory? | Since when |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs | Yes | Always (reinforced 2023) |
| Cats | Yes | Act 7/2023 |
| Ferrets | Yes | Act 7/2023 |
| Birds, reptiles, exotics | Depends on the region | Varies |
Requirements in advance
Before enrolling your pet in the census you need:
- Implanted microchip — Mandatory from puppy/kitten age (before 3 months). It is implanted by an authorised vet and recorded in the REIAC database.
- Vaccination record — With vaccines up to date (rabies vaccine is mandatory in most regions).
- Third-party liability insurance — Mandatory for dogs (minimum coverage €120,000). Since Act 7/2023, it applies to all breeds, not only those considered "dangerous".
How to register your pet step by step
Step 1: Microchip implantation
Go to an authorised vet. The cost is between €30 and €50. The vet will register the chip in the REIAC database.
Step 2: Vaccination
Make sure your pet has a valid rabies vaccine. It is mandatory in all regions except Galicia, the Basque Country, Asturias and Catalonia (although still recommended).
Step 3: Take out liability insurance
For dogs, you need third-party liability insurance. Since 2023 it is mandatory for all dogs, not only "dangerous" breeds. Approximate cost: €30–70/year.
Step 4: Book an appointment at the town hall
Registration in the census is done at your town hall (Ayuntamiento) or district office. In many cities it can be done online through the municipal e-government portal.
Step 5: Submit the documentation
- DNI/NIE of the owner
- Pet's vaccination record with microchip and vaccines
- Liability insurance policy (for dogs)
- Proof of payment of the municipal fee (varies: €0 – €30)
Step 6: Receive the census tag
The town hall will issue you an ID tag with the census number. It must always be worn on the animal's collar.
Important deadlines
| Situation | Deadline |
|---|---|
| New puppy/kitten | 3 months from birth |
| Adoption / purchase | 30 days from acquisition |
| Change of address | 30 days from the change |
| Death of the animal | 30 days to deregister |
| Loss or theft | 48 hours to report |
What happens if you DON'T register your pet?
Penalties vary by autonomous community:
| Severity | Fine |
|---|---|
| Minor (failure to register) | €500 – €10,000 |
| Serious (failure to identify with chip) | €10,001 – €50,000 |
| Very serious (abandonment) | €50,001 – €200,000 |
Mandatory course for new dog owners
Act 7/2023 establishes that every new dog owner must take a free training course before obtaining the ownership licence. The course covers:
- Basic needs of the animal
- Current legislation
- Coexistence and responsible ownership
The course certificate is required for the ownership licence, which in turn is a prerequisite for the census.
Related procedures in GovEasy
GovEasy helps you with all the paperwork for your pet:
- 📋 Pet census — Step-by-step guide for your town hall
- 🔖 Microchip and identification — Authorised vets nearby
- 📄 Dog ownership licence — Documentation and appointment
- ✈️ European pet passport — To travel with your pet in the EU
- 🔄 Change of ownership — For adoption or transfer
- ❌ Deregistration on death — Mandatory notification to the census
- 🛡️ Liability insurance — Comparison of pet insurance policies
Need to register your pet? Go to GovEasy > Procedures > Animals and we'll guide you step by step with the exact documentation for your town hall.
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