Evolution of Dog Abandonment in Spain

The abandonment of dogs in Spain is a persistent and alarming issue that has evolved over time. Although significant efforts have been made to reduce it, much remains to be done. Every summer, thousands of dogs are left in shelters, on streets, and along highways because their families do not want to take them on vacation. This phenomenon, which reflects a lack of responsibility and planning, has seen some changes over the years, both in terms of magnitude and social and legal responses. Let's talk about the causes, consequences, and how we can address it.

Origin of the Problem

In past decades, especially in the 70s and 80s, the abandonment of dogs during vacations began to be a visible problem in Spain. As the number of multi-species families increased, so did the number of people who lacked consideration for what this entailed in the long term. Vacations became a critical time within this context. The lack of accessible options for dog care during prolonged absences and the low awareness of responsible pet ownership resulted in a significant increase in summer abandonments.

In the 90s, the issue of dog abandonment during vacations began to gain public attention. Awareness campaigns by animal associations and shelters played a crucial role. These campaigns aimed to educate the public on the responsibility of owning a dog and the available alternatives for their care during vacations, such as kennels and pet-sitting services, as well as the consequences of abandonment for the animal.

Additionally, during this period, some autonomous communities began to introduce stricter regulations and penalties for animal abandonment. These laws, although basic, laid the foundation for a legal framework aimed at deterring families from abandoning their dogs.

With the onset of the 21st century, the infrastructure and options for dog and cat care during vacations improved significantly. A large number of kennels and catteries opened, along with pet-sitting and dog-walking services that offered personalized care. The popularization of technology also made it easier for dog owners to connect with caregivers through apps and online platforms that allowed them to find and book care services easily and reliably.

The requirement of microchip identification for dogs, which started in some autonomous communities and eventually became mandatory nationwide, facilitated the identification and recovery of lost or abandoned dogs. This technological advance has helped reduce abandonment, as families feared being tracked and fined.

Causes of Dog Abandonment During Vacations

Lack of Scruples: Some families never consider the dog a family member or a sentient being that will suffer the consequences of their actions, and without any remorse, they leave their companion exposed to all the risks of abandonment.

Lack of Planning: Many families do not adequately plan for their dog's care before vacations. Lack of foresight leads to hasty decisions that may result in impulsive abandonment.

Economic Factors: Economic difficulties can lead families to see the cost of caring for their canine companion during vacations as an unnecessary expense, opting to abandon them instead.

Ignorance: There is still significant ignorance about the available options for dog care and the seriousness of abandoning an animal.

Disposable Culture: Some families view dogs as disposable goods, especially if acquired impulsively, and do not hesitate to abandon them when they become an inconvenience.

Consequences of Abandonment

The abandonment of dogs during vacations has serious consequences for both the dogs and society:

For the Dogs: Dogs abandoned by their families suffer from stress, hunger, disease, and, in many cases, death. Those taken to shelters face the possibility of being euthanized if they are not fit for adoption, are ill, or if there is no space for them in the shelter. Although there are more no-kill shelters today, many dogs, due to stress, may meet the criteria for euthanasia.

Social and Economic Impact: Shelters, animal welfare organizations, and individuals who rescue dogs are overwhelmed during the vacation season, increasing operational costs and pressure on those responsible, foster homes, and volunteers.

Solutions

To address dog abandonment during vacations, a combination of education, legislation, and adequate resources is essential:

Education and Awareness: Educational campaigns should be intensified and expanded, emphasizing the responsibility of considering dogs as family members and deepening the understanding of the consequences of abandonment. Schools, associations, and public administrations should play a crucial role in teaching responsible pet ownership at any age.

Stricter Laws: Animal abandonment laws should be more stringent and consistently enforced. Penalties should be severe enough to deter potential violators.

Promoting Responsible Adoption: Ban the buying and selling of pets and discourage potential buyers, especially avoiding impulsive purchases that promote the commodification mentality. Animal shelters should continue educating, raising awareness, advising adopters, and promoting responsible adoption.

What Can We Do as Individuals to Fight This Scourge?

Take a stand and raise awareness in our environment. Demand stricter and more effective laws from our representatives. Collaborate with organizations that rescue animals. If we have the means and resources, adopt a dog in need of a home, prioritizing those often overlooked, such as older, larger, less attractive, or more challenging dogs.