State of alarm and pets: what is allowed?
The State of alarm installed in all of Spain as a consequence of the coronavirus Covid-19 has also restricted the mobility of pets. Is it allowed to walk the dog in any given moment and can somebody come along? Is there a certain time limit to these walks?
Below, we list the activities regarding walking your dog which are allowed and recommended during the state of alarm:
- It is allowed to walk your dog so that it can relieve itself. But these walks should be short, individual – no more than one person – and without making contact with other people or animals.
- You must bring a bottle with water and detergent to clean up the urine after them and bags for faeces. This is a basic hygiene measure in force not only during the days on confinement.
- Give priority to the hours when fewer people are around, to avoid contact.
The director of the Coordination Centre for Health Warnings and Emergencies of the Health Ministry, Fernando Simón, has stated that the walks with the dog “are not limited to a specific time, just the habitual”. Nevertheless, the main recommendation is to keep the walks short and to avoid contact with anybody.
In addition to the above, the Directorate-General for Animal Rights explains it is also permitted to feed feline colonies as long as one gives priority to quiet hours, as well as animals on farms and in animal protection centres. These tasks can only be performed by people with previous authorisation.
Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that pets are playing a role in the spread of COVID-19. However, the authorities recommend to limit contact with our pets being extra careful with hygienic standards: when you go out for a walk, it is recommended not to touch any object with your hands – such as door handles, lift buttons, doors – or to do so wearing gloves; disinfect all equipment correctly (leash, collar, etcetera) and leave it at the door entrance, together with your shoes; and wash your hands thoroughly after touching them and before feeding them. You are also requested not to use face masks on them, as they are of no use and may asphyxiate them.
For more detailed information see the official webpage of:
