Penalties in Spain for pet travel deemed hazardous escalate to €200,000

Penalties in Spain for pet travel deemed hazardous escalate to €200,000

In Spain, the safety of pets during travel has become a top priority, with the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) and the Spanish Animal Welfare Law (Ley 7/2023) imposing strict regulations to ensure both animal welfare and traffic safety.

The DGT's summer road safety campaign emphasises the importance of proper pet restraint during holiday travel, especially during peak travel months. Violations of these rules can lead to hefty fines and even criminal charges in severe cases.

A pet found unrestrained in a moving vehicle usually results in a €200 fine. However, if a dog is on the driver’s lap or poses a significant distraction, the fine increases to €500 plus a loss of three driving licence points.

To avoid these penalties, the DGT recommends several approved restraint methods. Using approved harnesses or seat belts designed for pets to secure them properly is one such method. Transporting pets in suitable pet carriers or crates that are securely fixed inside the vehicle is another. Preventing pets from roaming freely inside the vehicle or sitting on the driver’s lap, which can cause distractions and violate traffic safety laws, is also crucial.

No specific brands or models of restraints are mandated, but they must be recognised as safe and effective to avoid the risk of causing distractions or harm while driving. Rigid transport crates, properly fastened in the rear seat or boot, are also considered compliant under the stricter interpretation of the law.

Violations of Article 18.1 of the Spanish General Traffic Regulations regarding pet transport can result in fines. Soft harnesses, back-seat tethering without double anchorage, or loose crates are not considered compliant under the stricter interpretation of the law.

Serious violations can result in fines up to €50,000, while very serious violations, such as those leading to severe injury or death of an animal, can result in fines up to €200,000. Improper pet transport could potentially fall under both traffic and animal protection laws.

Minor violations of the Animal Welfare Law can result in fines up to €10,000. Animal protection associations urge the public to take pet safety seriously, emphasising that even well-behaved animals can become dangerous in an emergency stop or crash if not properly restrained.

Moreover, a growing number of motor insurers have included pet travel clauses in their policies. Improper pet transport could potentially lead to denied claims for personal injury and vehicle damage, according to multiple reports.

In conclusion, ensuring pet safety during travel is not just about avoiding fines, but also about ensuring the well-being and safety of our beloved pets. By following the recommended restraint methods, we can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer journey for everyone.

1. The DGT's summer road safety campaign stresses the significance of adhering to pet restraint guidelines during holiday travel, particularly for traveling pets, as violations can lead to fines and may even be criminal charges in severe cases.
2. Using approved pet harnesses or seat belts, transporting pets in suitable pet carriers, and preventing pets from roaming freely inside the vehicle or sitting on the driver’s lap are crucial steps in ensuring both pet safety and traffic safety, as per the DGT's recommendations.

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