Pet Insurance: When is it mandatory and what does it cover?

The new Animal Welfare Law, approved in Congress in March, comes into force on Friday 29 September. As planned, once the law is fully developed, owners will have to insure their dog and take a short course. This will be from the coming weeks. The reason why it cannot be implemented yet is because the current acting government does not have the power to develop regulations.

In this regard, everything is expected to be approved by the end of the year. Therefore, it is important to start preparing the procedures as well. Once the regulations are approved, not having this civil liability insurance will lead to fines ranging from 500 to 10,000 euros, depending on the severity of the facts.

The Animal Welfare Law is an initiative that arises in response to promoting the protection and prevention of animal abandonment. Spanish households have more pets than children, a fact that reinforces the importance of domestic animals in our society.

What Does the Animal Welfare Law Say About Insurance?

Animal welfare laws vary by country or jurisdiction. However, in many places, the need to insure pets, especially those that can pose a risk to other people or animals, is recognized. These laws aim to ensure that, in the event of an incident, owners have the means to respond appropriately.

According to point 3 of article 30 of the animal welfare law, dog owners must “take out and keep in force a civil liability insurance for damages to third parties”. The insurance for dogs must cover the people responsible for the animal for a sufficient amount to cover possible expenses derived, which will be established by regulation.

When is Pet Insurance Mandatory?

As we have mentioned before, from 29th September, with the coming into force of the new Animal Welfare Law, civil liability insurance for dogs is mandatory for all dog owners in Spanish territory, regardless of their dangerousness, size, or weight.

Coverage of Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is similar to health insurance for people. Until now, most families (and insurance companies) were interested in veterinary insurances, as they covered part of the prevention visits, consultation, and surgery for their animals, but not so much in civil liability insurances.

It is important to understand that there are different types of pet insurance. For example, while health insurance focuses on the animal’s welfare and health expenses, civil liability insurance is intended to cover the damages that the pet may cause to third parties.

Broadly speaking, we could divide insurances into three types:

• Civil Liability insurances, which cover the damages that a dog can cause to third parties, whether objects, people, or other animals.
• Accident insurances, which also cover injuries to the guide or owner, as well as to the animal.
• Veterinary insurances, which resemble a health plan with different levels of coverage, from surgeries to medication for illness to prevention.

What is the Difference Between Health Insurance for Pets and Civil Liability Insurance?

Pet Health Insurance focuses on expenses related to the animal’s well-being and health, such as veterinary visits, medicines, and treatments.

Civil Liability Insurance covers the damages that the pet may cause to third parties, whether people, properties, or other animals. This insurance is essentially a guarantee for the pet owner and those who may temporarily take care of the animal. Imagine if your neighbour’s dog, while you are looking after it during their holidays, breaks another neighbour’s favourite vase or bites someone. This insurance would cover the damages.

Home Insurances Already Include This Coverage

It is essential to know that some home insurances already include civil liability coverage. However, you should contact your insurance company to include your dog’s details in a registry and create a file. For instance, Marta has a policy that covers damages caused by her dog at a friend’s home.

If your current policy does not include it, there are specialised insurances, such as healthcare assistance, with additional benefits, from veterinary care to compensation for loss. Silvia, when losing her pet, was able to advertise her search in the city thanks to her insurance. Before choosing a policy, check your home insurance to ensure you are not overpaying.

When Should I Consider Taking Out Insurance for My Pet?

Taking out insurance for your pet is advisable from the moment you adopt or acquire it, as you never know when an unforeseen event can occur. Additionally, by insuring your pet from a young age, you are likely to find more affordable rates and broader coverage.

Benefits of Having Pet Insurance

• Financial Peace of Mind: In the face of emergencies, you won’t have to worry about unexpected veterinary expenses.
• Well-being for Your Pet: Ensures proper treatment in case of illness or accident.
• Protection Against Damages to Third Parties: Avoids legal or financial issues in case your pet causes any damage.

Pet insurance not only provides financial peace of mind but also guarantees a level of care and protection for those furry family members we love so much. It is an investment in their well-being and your peace of mind.

How Much Does Civil Liability Insurance Cost?

Civil liability insurance for dogs ranges between 30 and 50 euros per month, depending on the insurance company. A general pet insurance can guarantee more extensive coverage, including healthcare assistance, loss or theft, euthanasia, or death of the pet. The price would be around 300 euros annually.

Take out your pet insurance now with SECURME to comply with the legal regulations and not worry in case your furry friend causes damages to third parties. And all, for very little per month!