The Government begins the process to regulate the Positive List of companion animals today
Today, Friday, April 17, 2026, the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption, and 2030 Agenda has officially launched the public consultation process for the draft Royal Decree that will regulate the Positive List of companion animals and that of domestic species.
Firstly, it should be noted that this regulation is one of the most anticipated technical implementations of the Animal Welfare Law (Law 7/2023). In fact, its main objective is to establish which species may live in our homes based on scientific criteria. In this way, it aims to ensure public safety, public health, and, of course, animal welfare.
A paradigm shift: From the “Blacklist” to the “Positive List”
Until now, Spanish regulations were based on banning specific species, such as invasive ones. However, with the new Positive List system, the logic is completely reversed: therefore, only what is expressly authorized will be permitted.
Furthermore, this model is already successfully operating in countries such as Belgium or the Netherlands. Likewise, the regulation will be structured into several evaluation phases for:
- Mammals and birds.
- Reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates.
What criteria will be followed to include a species?
On the other hand, this is the most critical part of the Royal Decree. For a species to be part of the list, the Scientific and Technical Committee must evaluate several fundamental points:
- Ease of care: That is to say, that their physiological needs are easily met in a domestic environment.
- Safety: In order to prevent them from being animals that are dangerous to human life.
- Environment: Consequently, it must be ensured that there is no risk of them becoming an invasive species if they escape.
- Public Health: Especially to ensure they are not vectors for zoonotic diseases (transmissible to humans).
Deadlines: The clock is ticking for the sector
In this sense, the public participation process is open as of today and ends on May 8, 2026. For this reason, it is a vital window of opportunity for associations, veterinarians, and zoological centers wishing to submit technical representations to help shape the regulation.
📩 Do you need help with your submissions or want to know how this affects you?
The implementation of this Positive List will generate complex legal questions. Therefore, do not leave your activity to the chance of a regulation under construction. As an expert in animal law and welfare, I offer personalized advice to:
- Analyze how the Royal Decree affects your specific case.
- As well as drafting and submitting technical representations before May 8.
- Adapt your activity to the requirements of Law 7/2023.
In conclusion, do not wait until the last day.
👉 📩 Contact me now and let’s talk about how to protect your interests and animal welfare.
