Abandoning an animal is a crime

What the law says, what those who abandon risk, and the alternatives when you can no longer care for the animal.

What to do, step by step

1. 1Since 2014 abandoning a companion animal is a crime (article 388 of the Penal Code): prison of up to six months or a fine, plus administrative fines and a ban on keeping animals.
2. 2Mistreatment (article 387) is punished more severely, especially when it causes death or serious injury.
3. 3Can no longer care for it? Talk to the vet, to associations and to the municipal shelter: there are responsible surrender programmes, sponsorship and food support.
4. 4Post the animal for responsible adoption (associations and the Adoption area of patuco), being honest about temperament and health.
5. 5Witnessed an abandonment? See the guide "How to report an abandoned animal".

Useful contacts

• SEPNA / GNR — Linha SOS Ambiente e Território

  Reports of mistreatment, abandonment and environmental crimes, 24 hours.

  808 200 520
  Call Open
• Câmara Municipal / Centro de Recolha Oficial (CRO)

  Municipal veterinary service of your municipality: stray animals, removal of dead animals from public roads.
• Queixa Eletrónica (MAI)

  File a complaint online with the GNR or PSP, with photos and videos.
  Open

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General information, with no legal or veterinary value. In an emergency call 112 or a vet right away; always confirm procedures with the official bodies.