Please support our sponsors. Click on their logo to visit their website and learn more about their products and services.
Our Policy on Stray Animals
What the law says
At PAWS-PATAS, we deeply care about every animal in need – but unfortunately, we can’t help them all directly. That’s why the focus should be on Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs, which offer a humane and sustainable solution for managing feral cat populations.
We do not typically collect or trap stray cats ourselves. While we’ve had great success rehoming many dogs, feral and street cats, called community cats under the New Animal Welfare Law, are not suitable for adoption. They are the responsibility of the local Ayuntamientos and the removal of a community cat can only take place with their authorisation or by a registered association, when there is a concern for their welfare. These cats are better supported through long-term TNR and managed colony care.
Under Spanish Law 7/2023 on the Protection of Animal Rights and Welfare:
- Local municipalities (Ayuntamientos) are legally responsible for the collection and care of stray and abandoned animals.
- They must also provide a 24-hour emergency service for the rescue and veterinary treatment of injured or lost animals.
- This obligation applies to all municipalities, regardless of population size. Smaller towns (typically under 20,000 residents) may receive support from provincial authorities (Diputaciones) to meet these responsibilities.
What to do if you find a stray
If you find a stray cat, dog, or other animal:
Contact your local Ayuntamiento first – they are legally obligated to respond.
Ayuntamientos
for a list of all the local ayuntamientos
In urgent situations, you may also contact:
Seprona
(the animal/environmental protection unit of the Guardia Civil)
Local vet
A local vet, particularly if the animal is injured.
Important: PAWS-PATAS does not have medical facilities. We are unable to provide veterinary treatment at our shelter
Found a friendly stray? We may be able to help
While we can’t take in every animal, there may be ways we can support you—depending on the animal’s temperament and our current resources.
Advertising for adoption
If you’re willing to care for the animal temporarily, we can help promote them on our website and social media to increase their chances of finding a forever home.
Please fill out the Advertise Form to get started.
Rehoming support
If the animal is friendly and suitable for adoption, you can register them using the form below. A volunteer will be in touch to discuss the next steps and how we can help bring them safely into our care.