Why are there so many Spanish Stray Dogs?
The sunshine, the vibrant culture – Spain has a lot to offer. But hidden beneath that sunny exterior lies a heartbreaking reality for many dogs. Thousands of Spanish stray dogs roam the streets, facing hunger, illness, and danger. In Spain, stray dogs are a common sight, and sadly, the issue is complex.
On the left, Mari Jose and Pepe, who have found loving homes in the UK through Spanish Happy Tails Rescue UK
Several factors contribute to the high number of Spanish stray dogs. Unlike in the UK, neutering and spaying aren't as widely practised. Spaying and neutering not only help control the population but also can reduce some unwanted behaviours that can lead to abandonment. It is estimated around 300,000 animals in Spain are abandoned each year and a third of them are euthanised.
Let us stress that we are not saying neutering is a magic solution for unwanted behaviours, the change in hormones can have negative consequences for some dogs who are displaying unwanted behaviours.
Additionally, some traditional attitudes in Spain view dogs more as working animals than companions, leading to them being cast aside when they're no longer needed for herding or guarding. An example is Galgos, at the end of hunting season thousands of them are abandoned or killed inhumanely.
Spanish stray dogs that are picked up by animal control often end up in overcrowded shelters with limited resources. These shelters, while doing their best, can't offer the individual care and attention these dogs desperately need.
A Brighter Future for Rescue Dogs from Spain
Here's where dog rescues like ours step in. Many UK-based dog rescues work with shelters in Spain to bring these deserving dogs to the UK, where they can find loving forever homes. The journey for these rescue dogs from Spain is a chance for a new beginning.
Spanish rescue dogs have a lot of love to give. They come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds, many with unique mixed heritage – a testament to Spain's rich tapestry of dog breeds. These dogs are incredibly adaptable and, with a little patience and training, can become cherished members of the family. Many Spanish dogs excel at activities like agility or scent work, offering an exciting new chapter for both dog and owner.
There's a misconception that Spanish rescue dogs are somehow less desirable than their UK counterparts. This simply isn't true. Many Spanish dogs are perfectly healthy, playful, and eager to please. Some may have had a rough start in life, but with love and understanding, they can blossom into wonderful companions.
How can I help dogs in Spain?
Helping raise awareness of the situation in Spain and the dogs in need can result in a life-changing second chance for these dogs. Follow rescues and shelters on social media and engage with and share their posts, you never know who might lay eyes on a dog in Spain from a post you have shared, fall in love and welcome them into their home.
If you choose to adopt a rescue dog from Spain, you not only give a deserving dog a second chance at a happy life, but you also free up space in Spanish shelters for more dogs in need. Consider opening your heart and home to a Spanish stray dog. You might just find the perfect furry friend you never knew you were looking for.
At Spanish Happy Tails Rescue UK, we take care of everything for you once your adoption has been confirmed. All you need to do is get excited for your new arrival, have fun shopping and we’ll do the rest.
The dogs below are all waiting for their happily ever after, and it could be with you! Our website is full of information on the adoption process and we can answer any questions you may have about giving a Spanish rescue dog a loving home.
