Spain
New Welfare Rule Prohibits Leaving Dogs And Cats In Vehicles
Spain has introduced new animal welfare regulations prohibiting dogs and cats from being left inside vehicles in circumstances that could endanger their health or welfare. The measure forms part of the country’s wider Animal Welfare Law and is intended to reduce preventable suffering caused by high temperatures and other hazardous conditions. Authorities have warned that breaches of the legislation may result in financial penalties.
European Union
European Parliament Advances New Dog And Cat Welfare Rules
The European Parliament has adopted new measures designed to strengthen the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats across the European Union. The proposals introduce tighter controls on breeding, identification and the sale of companion animals while aiming to tackle illegal trade, improve animal welfare standards and strengthen consumer protection throughout Member States.
France
More Than 335,000 Dogs And Cats Taken In By Animal Welfare Organisations
New animal welfare figures show that shelters, associations and municipal pounds across France admitted an estimated 335,258 dogs and cats during 2025. The figures highlight the continuing impact of abandonment, neglect and cruelty on animal welfare organisations, many of which continue to face significant pressure caring for increasing numbers of vulnerable animals.
Brazil
Municipal Animal Welfare Team Reports Record First Half Of The Year
São José do Rio Preto has reported record levels of activity by its municipal animal welfare service during the first half of 2026. The municipality recorded 230 rescues involving animals affected by abandonment, neglect, cruelty or other situations of vulnerability, alongside increased inspections, veterinary interventions and welfare support across the city.
Thailand
Municipality Plans Temporary Shelter For Stray Dogs
Lam Narai Municipality has announced plans to establish a temporary shelter for free roaming dogs as part of wider efforts to improve community animal welfare. Municipal officials have begun site inspections and discussions on the management of the proposed facility, which is expected to provide temporary care while supporting local stray dog management initiatives.
Poland
National Shelter Inspections Identify Irregularities At Forty Facilities
Poland’s Chief Veterinary Inspector has reported that inspections carried out at 368 animal shelters identified irregularities at 40 facilities. The findings have prompted renewed attention on shelter oversight and compliance with national animal welfare standards, with veterinary authorities expected to continue monitoring and enforcement activity.
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