“Yes, Animals Have Feelings,” Says This Country

Spanish authorities have recognized that animals are sentient beings, and therefore are protected under law against mistreatment, abandonment, and even in post-divorce settlements.

According to a 2013 review, “animal sentience refers to the ability of animals to feel and experience emotions such as joy, pleasure, pain, and fear. It is animals’ capacity to feel both positive and negative states that drives the animal welfare movement and is the reason why animal protection laws exist.”

Animal rights are added to the Spanish Civil Code, as well as legal guidance regarding divorce and family, to make sure that decisions are in the best interests of animals and humans alike. New sanctions will apply against seizure, mistreatment, and abandonment. This new ruling is widely approved by animal rights organizations.