France
Debate Grows Over Legal Personhood For Animals
A renewed debate is taking place in France over whether animals should eventually be granted a stronger legal status. The discussion follows growing public support for recognising animals as more than property within the legal system.
According to a 2026 survey cited by the Fondation 30 Millions d’Amis, 82% of French people support recognising a genuine legal status for animals. Advocates argue that legal personhood would allow animal interests to be represented more directly in court proceedings and strengthen protections against cruelty and neglect.
Spain
First National Animal Protection Statistics Released
Spain has published its first official national animal protection statistics, providing the clearest picture yet of companion animal ownership across the country. The figures show that more than 15 million companion animals now live in Spanish households, including over 7.5 million dogs and 5.6 million cats.
The data also highlights ongoing welfare challenges, with an estimated 292,000 dogs and cats entering shelters or rescue services during 2024.
Spain
Government Commits €3.9 Million To Animal Welfare Organisations
The Spanish Ministry of Social Rights has announced almost €4 million in funding for animal welfare programmes. The funding will support organisations caring for abandoned animals as well as local authorities managing community cat colonies.
Nearly half of the funding will go directly to organisations involved in collecting and caring for abandoned animals, while the remainder will support local animal management initiatives.
Spain
Fuenlabrada Launches Municipal Adoption Search Platform
The municipality of Fuenlabrada has launched a new online adoption platform designed to help animals in municipal care find homes more quickly. Residents can browse animals available for adoption and learn about the adoption process before visiting the protection centre.
Officials hope the initiative will improve visibility for animals waiting for permanent homes and increase adoption rates across the municipality.
Spain
Animal Welfare Festival To Promote Adoption In Jerez
Animal welfare organisations and local authorities in Jerez are preparing for a major public animal welfare event later this month. The festival will focus on adoption, responsible ownership and community engagement.
Organisers hope the event will strengthen cooperation between welfare groups and local residents while helping more animals find suitable homes.
Spain
Pet Ownership Continues To Grow Across The Country
Newly released national statistics also reveal continued growth in pet ownership across Spain. Official figures indicate that the country’s companion animal population has increased significantly over the last five years, with cats showing particularly strong growth.
Animal welfare groups say the figures demonstrate the increasing importance of companion animals within Spanish society while reinforcing the need for robust welfare policies and responsible ownership measures.
End of Bulletin