New aid for free veterinary care: requirements for applying

On September 29, the new animal welfare law came into effect in Spain. This national legislation aims to promote responsible pet ownership, combat mistreatment and abandonment, and support essential campaigns such as identification, vaccination, sterilization, and proper care of our pets. Previously, these regulations were handled at the regional level.

Although the law imposes responsibilities on owners, economic realities can make access to veterinary care difficult. The Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) points out that the cost can amount to 1,100 euros per year.

In response to this need, the FAADA Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Rights and Agenda 2030, launched the #MejoresAmigos program in 2016. This program, born from the need to highlight the bond between people and animals in vulnerable situations, was expanded in 2026 to offer free veterinary assistance to those facing financial difficulties.

This program is not limited solely to financial assistance. The General State Budgets include support for municipal Social Services, providing counseling and accompaniment in cases involving people who share their lives with animals. Additionally, tools and training are offered to professionals working with people in vulnerable situations and their companion animals. Finally, technical/legal support and protocols for accessing residential resources are also provided.

Who can benefit from this aid?

-Homeless people with animals
-People experiencing homelessness who share their lives with animals
-Victims of gender-based violence accompanied by animals
-People living in substandard housing with their animals
-Elderly people with minimum pensions who live with animals
-People who, even if they have a home, live in a situation of economic vulnerability

What services does the program include?

The program aims to cover all veterinary needs of each animal, including vaccination, identification, sterilization, deworming, and, in justified cases, euthanasia with incineration. Together, we are building a future where animal welfare and human solidarity go hand in hand.

How to apply for the new free veterinary assistance for your pet

To access this free aid, simply submit the necessary documentation to FAADA to start the process. They will take care of finding the nearest veterinary center and coordinating with social services to schedule the appointment.

Once the service is completed, FAADA assumes the responsibility of paying the veterinary center's invoice on your behalf.

The veterinary interventions included in the program include vaccination, identification, sterilization, deworming, justified euthanasia, and incineration.