Law No. LP256/2025 “On the protection of pet animals”.

This Law establishes the legal framework for the protection and welfare of pet animals kept for companionship, both with and without owners, and prohibits cruel treatment, the unjustified infliction of pain, suffering or injury, and the unjustified killing of them. This Law regulates: (a) the activities of keeping, maintaining, identifying, trading, transporting and protecting pet animals with and without owners, regardless of the form of ownership, as well as other activities involving pet animals; (b) responsibility of pet owners and authorities responsible for stray animal management; (c) oversight and public participation mechanisms to ensure protection and welfare of pet animals; and (d) mechanisms for monitoring, controlling and sanctioning of violations of legislation in the field of pet animals. The provisions of this Law shall apply to the following activities: (a) keeping, breeding, marketing and transporting pet animals; (b) providing veterinary medical assistance; (c) regulation, management and control of stray animals; (d) the use of pet animals in public and recreational activities; and (e) the use of pet animals in animal-assisted therapy. This Law does not apply to the keeping, breeding and marketing of animals intended for use for scientific purposes. Any person who owns or has in his care a pet animal is responsible for its health and well-being. It is prohibited to keep animals under the following conditions: (a) in unsanitary, dark spaces, without ventilation or with extreme temperatures, inappropriate to the physiological needs of the species; and (b) in total isolation from natural stimuli or social interaction, in the case of species that require socialization. In relation to animals, it is prohibited: (a) exposure to physical or psychological violence; (b) failure to provide veterinary medical assistance in case of need; (c) deprivation of food and water; and (d) use for illegal purposes, including animal fighting and violent training. The number of pets kept in the home or in the yards is established by the local public administration authorities, in accordance with the sanitary and veterinary regulations and the maintenance conditions.