Do you have a dog or a cat? If so, there are lots of reasons why you should take out pet insurance. What’s more, when civil liability insurance is regulated in the Animal Welfare Law, should all dogs be covered by such insurance?

If you the health of your dog or cat concerns you, and you want your pet to be well looked after by the best professionals, here are some good reasons to take out pet insurance. Take note!

Take out Civil Liability coverage

Law passed in 2023

The law passed in 2023 did not regulate the obligatory nature of Civil Liability insurance for all dogs, so for the time being the previous law is still in force, which obliges Potentially Dangerous Dog (PPP) owners to hold civil liability insurance, with the exception of some Autonomous Communities such as Madrid or the Basque Country, which do require it for all dogs. In the case of Potentially Dangerous Dogs (PPP), Royal Decree 287/2002 sets forth that the scope of the Civil Liability cover must be at least €120,000. But at SegurCaixa Adeslas, we go further; our pet insurance covers up to €200,000. 

Nevertheless, we recommend taking out civil liability insurance to cover personal and material damage caused to third parties.

Civil Liability

The Civil Liability Guarantee for SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance covers:

• Damage to third parties. When a dog insurance policy is taken out, the owner of the dog is covered for damage that the pet may cause to other people or animals.
• Damage to property. Similarly, the insurance covers material damage caused by the dog.
• Legal expenses. And also the costs derived from any legal proceedings the dog may be involved in.

To give you an idea of the importance of Civil Liability coverage, let’s look at you an example:

• Imagine you are walking your dog and it gets off its lead.
• On the way, a cyclist is knocked over and falls and hits the ground. And not just that: their bike is seriously damaged.
• The cyclist is taken to a medical centre and, after being treated, reports you.

Well: by taking out pet insurance with Civil Liability coverage, SegurCaixa Adeslas would take responsibility for compensating the damages your dog caused to the cyclist and their bike. You would also not have to pay court costs. All of this is managed through the Segurcaixa Adeslas network of lawyers.

Protect your pet’s health

Another reason to take out pet insurance with SegurCaixa Adeslas is that you get the option of taking out the comprehensive policy, with a range of coverages so your pet’s health can be looked after at all times. Among them:

Vet care

We offer you a wide range of vets with more than 500 partner clinics. Through the veterinary care guarantee, we cover a wide range of treatments at franchised prices, from surgeries to preventive sterilisations, breast oncology, diagnostic imaging, post-surgical treatment, etc.

Free veterinary consultations and check ups

Does your pet scratch a lot and shed its fur? Is it showing signs of apathy or low mood? Have you noticed any discomfort in its eyes? Don't worry: your pet will be examined by a vet at one of our partner clinics. And if you prefer, you can phone ahead and explain what is wrong with your pet.

Online veterinary care

With the online consultation service via chat and video consultation, a vet will determine whether your dog or cat requires urgent attention or whether its condition can be treated at home. What’s more, the vet can prescribe electronic prescriptions, offer you guidelines and advice, remind you when to vaccinate your pet... This is a great type of coverage for those who cannot get to a clinic.

Rabies vaccination

As we’ve already mentioned vaccination, with our comprehensive pet insurance, administering the rabies vaccine is free of charge in our partner clinics (except for the official fees).

24-hour veterinary emergencies

And if your dog or cat has a deep wound, has difficulty breathing or is limping and in pain, to name but a few, it will be treated in the emergency department. This service is available 24/7 by calling on 91 000 87 07 beforehand.

Are you worried about your pet’s welfare and want to have the best health insurance for your dog or cat? If that’s the case, you’ll have all this coverage when you take out the SegurCaixa Adeslas Comprehensive pet insurance policy.

Be protected against accidents, illness and theft

Another good reason to take out pet insurance is to protect yourself against unforeseen situations such as theft and death due to accident or illness.

• Death due to accident or illness. If your pet dies following an accident or illness, the policy pays out up to €1,000.
• Theft. And if your dog or cat is stolen, the insurance covers up to €800.

These coverages are undoubtedly of great help if our pet dies following an accident or illness. And also if it is stolen and not found.

For your financial well-being

And no less relevant: taking out pet insurance cuts down on veterinary costs.

Consultations

With a SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance, you won’t have to pay for the online consultation or visit, but you will get special rates on the veterinary treatments performed on your pet that you’ll have to pay for.

Veterinary treatments

Similarly, the pet insurance franchises make it easier to save a lot of money on veterinary procedures such as surgeries, diagnostics, sterilisations, euthanasia, hospitalisations, vaccinations, etc.

Complementary services

And this financial benefit can also be seen with 10% off training, grooming and kennels services.

Compensation

With regard to Civil Liability in terms of compensation, the Unespa insurance employers’ association states that, through the pet insurance Civil Liability coverage, insurers pay an average of €3,200 to those injured following an attack by another animal.

Legal costs

And still on Civil Liability, if a pet causes damage to third parties and the matter has to be resolved through the courts, the lawyer, solicitor, and expert report costs won’t be required if you have Civil Liability insurance.

Financial savings

As you will have seen, there are many reasons to take out SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance. By taking out a policy like this, you’ll have complete peace of mind knowing that your dog or cat is in the best hands and that the insurance coverage and services provided mean significant financial savings for you.

If you’re a dog or cat owner, this information will be of interest to you. Did you know that with the comprehensive SegurCaixa Adeslaspet insurance you can benefit from the online veterinary consultation via chat and video call?

If you don’t know what it entails and what its advantages are, this guide gives you a rundown so you can take care of your pet from the comfort of home. Take note!

How does the SegurCaixa Adeslas online vet consultation for pets work?

1. Access the service through the SegurCaixa Adeslas client area.
2. In your pet insurance there is a button to request the chat and video call.
3. And, once you get through to the vet, describe the pet’s symptoms and/or ask questions about the pet’s health status.

What consultations can I request online?

One of the advantages of the SegurCaixa Adeslas online vet consultation is that you can request numerous consultations with the vet via chat or video call. Among them:

Pet triage

Through an online consultation, a vet assesses whether your dog or cat requires urgent attention or if the condition can be treated at home.

Prescribing electronic prescriptions

Similarly, where necessary, electronic veterinary prescriptions are issued through the online consultation service.

Seeking a second opinion

Once a diagnosis has been made, with the online consultation service you can seek a second opinion from a different professional. This will give you more information to help you make the best decision about your pet’s health.

Guidelines for looking after your pet

What’s more, either by chat or video call, a vet gives you detailed instructions on how to care for your pet.

Guidance on nutrition, training and exercise

You’ll also be advised on the most appropriate diet and activity for your pet’s well-being.

Vaccination schedule

You can be given guidance based on the information you provide (record and age of the animal).

How to access the online veterinary service

1. First of all, go to the Client Area and look for your SegurCaixa Comprehensive Pet Insurance or MyBox Pets contracted.
2. Click on Chat or Video consultation and select your insured pet.
3. Then access the service provided by Meeting Vets.
4. Accept the terms and conditions of use of the website and service.
5. Select your vet and... start benefiting from online vet care!

Prepare your online consultation with the vet: what to have ready

• Basic information. Animal data such as weight, age, body temperature, medication or supplementation may be useful.
• Symptoms. If the pet shows any signs of illness, it is important to specify when the symptoms started, if they have been ongoing or variable...
• Photos and videos. Similarly, we recommend taking pictures or videos to provide the vet with more information, e.g. of a rash, a visible wound, unusual behaviour, etc.
• Questions. And also draw up a list of specific questions to take advantage of the consultation and clear up any doubts you may have.

Preparing before the veterinary online chat and video service will help the vet to provide a more efficient response and make a more effective diagnosis.

How to avail of this coverage

To avail of the online chat and videocall consultation with a vet you’ll need to have taken out Comprehensive SegurCaixa Pets or MyBox Pets insurance. In addition to online vet care, this option includes:

Civil Liability

Up to €200,000 capital.

Death due to accident

Up to €1,000 capital.

Theft

Up to €800 capital.

Death due to illness

Up to €1,000 capital.

Vet care

With an extensive network of vets and more than 500 veterinary clinics all over the country.

Free rabies vaccination

Except official fees.

Reduced prices

On all other services.

Advantages of online veterinary consultations

Online veterinary consultations have a number of advantages for you and your pet. Among them, the following:

• Save time and money. Accessing the service from home cuts down on travel costs and waiting times at the veterinary clinic.
• Less stress for your pet. Not having to take your pet to the clinic helps to reduce stress, especially in nervous animals or animals that aren’t used to being out of their environment.
• Immediate assessment of the pet’s state of health. Online vet care allows you to assess whether the dog or cat requires urgent attention or can wait for a face-to-face consultation, giving the owner peace of mind.
• Treatment can get started right away. By instantly issuing electronic prescriptions, pet owners can start their pet’s treatment as soon as possible.

These are very useful in the specific case of video consultations. They provide a visual interaction that helps the vet to observe the pet in real time to assess its behaviour and spot any abnormalities.

To sum up, the Comprehensive SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance comes with a chat and video consultation service with a vet so you can get answers to any questions you may have about the health of your dog or car without having to go to a clinic.

Your pet will receive the best care from a general practitioner or specialist that's part of an extensive network of vets all over the country.

If you want to ensure your pet is well looked after and protected, SegurCaixa Adeslas makes it easy for you with our specific pet insurance.

Our insurance will cover your pet in the event of theft, death and even illness by covering veterinary assistance, not to mention the obligations set forth in the Animal Welfare Law with regard to civil liability.   

Why is it important to take out pet insurance?

There are a number of reasons why you should take out pet insurance:

• Civil liability insurance

  The new Animal Welfare Law sets forth that dog owners must take out civil liability insurance and keep it up to date to cover material and/or personal damage that the pet may cause to third parties.

• PDD

  For obvious reasons, dog insurance is more pertinent to potentially dangerous dogs.

• Other types of coverage

  Specific insurance for dogs and cats comes with other types of coverage in addition to the civil liability guarantee

• Basic plan

  Therefore, in addition to the Civil Liability guarantee, the Basic SegurCaixa Adeslas Pet Insurance also covers theft and accidental death.

• Comprehensive Insurance

  Covers death due to illness (with a 6-month waiting period); veterinary assistance; veterinary consultations (in-person and by telephone) and free check ups; free rabies vaccination (except for official fees); discounts on other services and emergencies

  If you are still unsure, below we explain it.

What documentation is required to take out pet insurance and why it is a good idea.

• Pet owner’s data

  Just like with other insurance products, when taking out pet insurance an insurance company needs the policyholder’s data.

  Therefore, as the legal owner of the insured pet, you must provide us with your personal and contact details, as well as the bank account number that the premium payment will be direct debited from

• Your pet’s details

  Similarly, when you take out pet insurance, you will be asked to provide the date of birth of your dog or cat to ascertain their age range.

• Microchip number

  In this regard, one of the key pieces of information required by SegurCaixa Adeslas is the pet’s microchip number.

  In the past, the autonomous communities were responsible for regulating microchip implementation. However, following the entry into force of Law 7/2023, of 28 March on protecting the rights and welfare of animals, it has been regulated at national level.

  Known as the Animal Welfare Law, this regulation sets forth the following with regard to microchips: 

  • Dogs, cats and ferrets, as well as birds, must be identified using a microchip and ringed from birth.
  • The microchip must be approved and have a unique code registered in the Spanish Pet Identification Network (REIAC) database.
  • Failure to microchip a pet is considered a serious offence and carries a fine ranging from €10,000 to €50,000.

Travelling abroad is always a great experience, but unforeseen events can happen. That’s why knowing what to do if you are robbed while abroad is key to acting fast and avoiding a ruined holiday. This article explains the steps to take, how to prevent theft, and when travel insurance can help.

Steps to take if you are robbed while abroad

1. Cancel credit and debit cards

   One of the first steps to take in the event of theft is to cancel your credit or debit cards as soon as possible. Communicate with your bank or use the mobile apps that many banking entities offer to block the cards. A quick cancellation will prevent thieves from abusing them

2. Go to the embassy or consulate

   If your passport has been stolen while abroad or another important document, such as a national identity card, you need to go to the nearest embassy or consulate. They will help you arrange for a temporary document that will enable you to return home. You will sometimes need to provide two photographs and fill in a sworn declaration to confirm the loss or theft of your documentation. Remember that for European Union citizens there are agreements in place that allow for a certain amount of flexibility for travelling within the Schengen area without a passport, but you must have proof of the police report.

3. File a report at the local police station

   Reporting the theft in the area’s police station is essential. This step is also vital for obtaining proof of the police report, which will not only help you process the replacement of your documents, but you will also need it to make any claims from your insurance company. This document is sometimes needed to avoid fraudulent charges and to protect your identity. Make sure you provide information about everything that has been stolen, such as your mobile phone, passport, money or any other item of value.

4. Notify your telephone company

   If your mobile phone has been stolen, get in touch with your telephone company to block your number and prevent thieves from abusing the service. Some companies allow you to block your device remotely to protect personal information.

5. Contact your insurer

   If you have taken out travel insurance, this is the time to contact the company. Even though the cover for theft is limited to documents and keys, contact SegurCaixa Adeslas so that we can explain the steps you need to take and the kind of assistance we can provide for your situation. 

   If your luggage has been stolen, SegurCaixa Adeslas covers this when it is the responsibility of the transport carrier, so when you are not being transported it is not covered. 

How to prevent theft and avoid being robbed while abroad

Even though we cannot fully prevent a theft from happening, there are several measures you can take to prevent or reduce the risks of theft while travelling.

• Use hotel safes to store valuables and important documents.
• Upload a digital copy of your documents to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation website or on a safe storage service on the cloud.
• Avoid displaying items of value in public.
• Always keep your bag or rucksack in sight and use security pouches under your clothing.
• Take out travel insurance that provides cover in the event of theft while abroad.
• Make a list of emergency numbers before travelling, with the number of your bank, telephone company and insurer.

Knowing the risks at each destination can also help to prevent theft. Check the safety recommendations for each country on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation website.

How travel insurance can help you

Having travel insurance is one of the best ways to protect yourself in a situation of theft. Also, even though it is not always compulsory to travel with insurance, except in Cuba, it is highly recommended to have it when visiting countries such as the USA, China, Indonesia, Thailand and Turkey. 

These are some of the ways in which having travel insurance with SegurCaixa Adeslas can help you:

• Lost or stolen luggage: compensation of up to 300 euros for lost or stolen luggage that has been checked in by the transport carrier. 
• Support in arranging official documents after a theft: reimbursement of the costs stemming from replacing passports, visas or other important documents, up to a limit of 120 euros.

SegurCaixa Adeslas also offers cover in the event of delays and other travel incidents (cancellations, missed connections, etc.). 

In short, having a good travel insurance policy is the best way to travel with full peace of mind. It will let you enjoy every experience and adventure without having to worry about any unforeseen events that may emerge. So, before you take your next trip, make sure you have the best protection in place and devote yourself entirely to the most important part: enjoying your trip to the full.

Neutering your pet is one of the most important procedures for guaranteeing their well-being and preventing long-term health issues, as well as slowing uncontrolled breeding. A common question regarding this is, does pet insurance cover neutering? Below, we explain how this insurance works, what benefits it offers and the reasons for carrying out this procedure on your dog or cat.

Is neutering dogs or cats covered by insurance?

In regards to SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance policies, preventative neutering has a special price. However, one of the big advantages of taking out this insurance is the access to discounts for these kinds of procedures, consultations and visits at veterinary clinics included in the SegurCaixa Adeslas network. This applies both to dogs and cats if you take out the Complete Scheme. 

Also, having insurance makes it easier to plan other related treatments, such as subsequent check-ups or complementary care after surgery. You can check the rates for SegurCaixa Pets, which will depend on whether it is a dog or cat, what sex it is and the weight of the pet.

Why should you consider neutering your pet?

Neutering not only prevents unwanted litters. It also carries multiple health benefits for your pet. Here are the main reasons for neutering:

Main reasons for sterilization

• Preventing serious illnesses: it reduces the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and prostate cancer, as well as uterine infections such as pyometra.
• Birth control: it prevents unwanted litters, helping to reduce pet abandonment.
• Improved behaviour: it often reduces behaviours such as territorial marking, aggression and escaping to look for a mate.
• Increased life expectancy: neutered pets often live longer, as the risks associated with certain illnesses and accidents related to reproduction are lowered.
• Compliance with the Animal Welfare Law: in some autonomous communities of Spain, neutering is recommended or even compulsory in certain circumstances, such as with adopted pets.

How is neutering different in a male compared to a female?

The neutering procedure varies depending on the sex of the pet:

• Males: in male dogs and cats, the procedure consists of surgical castration, which involves removing the testicles. It is a relatively simple procedure with a quick recovery time.
• Females: in females, sterilisation can involve the removal of the ovaries (ovariectomy) or the ovaries and the uterus (ovariohysterectomy). This procedure is more complex than for males, but it is still safe and highly beneficial.

A general anaesthetic is applied in both instances. Post-operative care is essential to ensure good recovery.

Is there an age limit for neutering a pet?

There is no set age limit for neutering a pet, but it is important to bear certain factors in mind:

• Recommended age: generally speaking, sterilisation is recommended at between 6 and 12 months of age, when the pet has reached sexual maturity but before they develop any issues related to reproduction.
• Senior pets: even though neutering older animals can be more risky due to their state of health, it is still possible with prior assessment from a vet. In these cases, an exhaustive analysis is made to ensure the procedure is safe.

Each pet is unique, which is why you should discuss the decision to neuter with a vet so that they can assess the age, state of health and specific needs of the dog or cat.

The microchip is essential for identifying and protecting your dog, much like its National ID Number. You’ll need to know the number for various reasons, such as legal paperwork, locating your dog if it gets lost, or obtaining dog insurance. Below, we explain how to check the chip and when it’s important to have this information on hand.

How can I get my dog’s chip number?

The microchip number is unique to each dog and is linked to the Spanish Pet Identification Network (REIAC)database, to make it easier to identify. When a vet implants a microchip in a dog, a record is made of the unique number associated with the animal and the owner’s details, such as name, address, telephone number and ID number, along with information about the animal: name, age, breed and health card or passport number. These data are registered in the database of the corresponding Autonomous Community so the owner can be located in the event of loss by means of a microchip reader that vets, the police and the Civil Guard have.

If you don’t remember the number or need to check it, here are the ways to do i

Check the pet’s registration card or passport

When the vet microchips the dog, the number is written on the dog’s medical record or passport. Checking these documents is the first step to quickly and easily obtain this information.

With a microchip reader

Another way to verify the chip number is to use a microchip reader that can directly scan the dog’s chip. There’s no need to have this device at home, as vets always have one at their disposal and can take the reading in a matter of seconds.

When is it necessary to know a dog’s microchip number?

Having your dog’s microchip number on hand can be of vital importance in a number of situations. Here are the most common cases:

Mandatory

Microchipping your dog is not just mandatory under the Animal Welfare Act, it is of utmost importance because it allows you to locate your dog if it gets lost or runs away, it prevents theft by alerting vets if the animal is listed as missing in the database, and it helps to combat abandonment by identifying the owner and allowing legal action to be taken if need be. Many shelters house animals that could have been returned to their owners if they had been microchipped. 

When trying to locate the owner of a lost dog

If you find a lost dog, the microchip number is key to finding the owner. By scanning it, the vet or the authorities can access the database and get in touch with the owner. This is the only way to know for sure whose animal it is and it’s certainly the quickest way.

When changing Autonomous Community

When you move to another Autonomous Community, you need to update the microchip data in the local database. This ensures that, in the event of loss or emergency, your dog can be correctly identified in its new place of residence.

When changing the owner of your dog

If you decide to assign or transfer ownership of your dog, the change of ownership will need to be recorded in the database. For this purpose, the microchip number is of utmost importance, as it links the new owner to the pet.

When taking out pet insurance

Some dog insurance policies require the microchip number as part of the contracting process. This allows the dog to be identified and accurately record its details, ensuring that the most appropriate and personalised coverage is provided.

To sum up, microchipping is much more than just a legal requirement; it is of utmost importance when it comes to protecting your dog at all stages of its life. It’s therefore important to make sure that this information is always kept up to date and on hand.

Over the last number of years, interest in insurance for pets has risen sharply, in particular following the entry into force of the Animal Welfare Act. In this regard, many cat owners wonder whether they need to take out cat insurance.

What does pet insurance for cats cover?

Cat insurance comes with a number of benefits and coverages designed to ensure your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind. There are insurances that include:

Vet fees

The veterinary care coverage includes consultations, emergencies, vaccinations, diagnostic tests, surgeries, hospitalization, and anesthesia for animals weighing up to 40 kg.

Civil liability

Covers damage to other people, animals or property caused by the pet. This means that if the animal does something that incurs financial or legal costs, the insurance will cover these costs.

Accident coverage

With a capital sum of up to €1,000 in the case of SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance.

Theft

In some cases, theft protection is included, covering up to €800.

Is cat insurance mandatory?

There are currently no regulations in Spain making cat insurance mandatory. However, the Animal Welfare Act will make Civil Liability mandatory for all dogs, although it’s currently only mandatory for PPPs (Potentially Dangerous Dogs), which is also mandatory for all dogs in some Autonomous Communities such as Madrid and the Basque Country.

Therefore, although it isn’t mandatory, it could be worthwhile to take out insurance for your cat. It’ll give you peace of mind so you don't have to deal with unforeseen expenses that could break the bank without insurance. It also means your cat can be given the necessary care in any situation.

For example, insurance is highly recommended if your cat has access to the outdoors and there is a risk of damage to others or it’s involved in an accident. It’s also worthwhile for cats living in households with children or other pets, where incidents are always a possibility. What’s more, if you’d prefer to be covered against unexpected expenses, insurance is a practical and reassuring investment.

Advantages of taking out cat insurance

If you’re still unsure as to whether you need insurance for your cat, here are some of the main advantages:

Peace of mind

Having insurance means that your pet will be protected against all possible situations; from accidents to unexpected illnesses. This means you can act quickly in urgent situations without having to worry about costs.

Savings

Vet costs can be high, in particular when it comes to surgery, hospitalisation or prolonged treatment. Insurance helps to significantly cut down on the financial impact of these services by covering part and, in some cases, all of the costs.

Flexible options

You can choose the plan that best suits your pet. SegurCaixa MASCOTAS offers a basic, affordable option or a more complete plan for extra peace of mind—because a young indoor cat isn’t the same as an older or outdoor one.

24/7 assistance

The comprehensive pet insurance includes added services like veterinary consultations via chat and a 24/7 emergency phone line, helping you resolve quick questions or urgent issues without needing to visit the clinic right away.

Civil liability coverage

As we mentioned earlier, although it isn’t mandatory for cats, having third party liability coverage protects you against any cat-related incident, such as damage to property or injury to other people or animals.

Prevention and well-being

This not only improves their quality of life and life expectancy, it also prevents more serious problems in the long term.

Protection against unforeseen events

Such as accidents in the home, an insurance policy ensures that your cat receives the best medical care without costs being a barrier.

Tips

Tips to protect the health of your cat

Beyond taking out insurance, day-to-day care is key to ensuring that your cat lives as long as possible in the best possible conditions. Here are some practical tips:

• Regular visits to the vet: a general check-up is recommended at least once a year. Cats over 8 or those suffering from a pathology should get two check-ups per year.
• Balanced diet: always go for quality, well-formulated and nutritionally complete foods. Take into account your cat's age and needs before choosing the most suitable type of food.
• Home care: brush regularly to avoid matted fur or swallowing hairballs. Also look out for signs of illness by checking their ears, mouth and stool.
• Safe environment: make sure your home is free of dangerous objects, always protect windows to prevent falls and create a comfortable space for your pet, with a soft bed and a good scratching post.
• Hydration: Make sure your cat always has access to fresh, clean water. Cats are prone to kidney problems, so they should be encouraged to drink as much as possible.

Coverage

SegurCaixa Pets is a pet insurance policy for dogs and cats that will give you access to a large team of vets, making sure your pet is cared for by the best professionals. And can save you a lot of money on treatments and visits

Coverage

SegurCaixa Pets is a pet insurance policy for dogs and cats that will give you access to a large team of vets, making sure your pet is cared for by the best professionals. And can save you a lot of money on treatments and visits

Urology surgery

Urology-related surgeries feature among the treatments covered by the SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance vet care for dogs and cats. Essentially, these relate to operations on the urinary system:

• Cystotomy. This is surgery of the bladder for dogs and cats. It is needed to remove bladder stones and non-tumorous polyps. Price with insurance: €175. Price without insurance: €310.68.
• Canine penile urethrostomy. This treatment aims to create an artificial opening in the dog’s urethra to enable it to pass urine from the bladder. Price with insurance: €150. Price without insurance: €284.59.
• Perineal urethrostomy. Similar to the procedure above, but in cats. As with a cystotomy, a urethrostomy requires a prior assessment to determine whether the animal is fit to be anaesthetised. Price with insurance: €150. Price without insurance: €272.40.

Preventive sterilisation

Another type of treatment included in our pet insurance with vet care for dogs and cats is preventive sterilisation, a surgical intervention which, as well as preventing reproduction, carries multiple benefits from preventing infections and tumours to sidestepping unwanted behaviour, such as harassment or aggression. Sterilisation can also increase life expectancy in pets.

Our insurance for dogs and cats offers various types of surgery on the reproductive system:

• Dog neutering for males (not cryptorchidism). This involves the removal of the dog’s testicles. Price with insurance: €80. Price without insurance: €152.46.
• Cat neutering for males (not cryptorchidism). The procedure is similar to the above and the castration is very quick. Price with insurance: €70. Price without insurance: €132.13.
• Dog spaying for females (according to weight). This consists of the removal of the uterus and ovaries, with prices varying according to the weight of the pet. Price with insurance: from €110. Price without insurance: from €200.92.
• Cat spaying for females. A simple intervention to extract a cat’s reproductive organs to stop them going into heat and to prevent pregnancy. Price with insurance: €90. Price without insurance: €173,03.

Breast oncology

Oncology is the medical branch that deals with cancer. And, just as it is highly relevant in humans, it is also of the utmost importance in pet health. The SegurCaixa Adeslas vet care insurance guarantee for dogs and cats therefore covers the following specific procedures for breast oncology:

• Full mammary chain mastectomy (unilateral). This surgical intervention involves the removal of the pet’s mammary glands. Price with insurance: €200. Price without insurance: €374.04.
• Partial mammary chain mastectomy (unilateral). In this case, just some of the animal’s mammary glands are removed. Price with insurance: €175. Price without insurance: €374.04.
• Removal of an isolated breast tumour (nodule less than 3 cm in size). Both female dogs and cats can suffer from isolated breast tumours that need to be removed when detected. Price with insurance: €80. Price without insurance: €151.37.

In this and other types of interventions, the insurance covers the costs relating to the anaesthesia for animals under 40 kilos in weight.

SegurCaixa Adeslas rates do not include VAT. The treatment prices without insurance are approximate and available for comparison in the vet clinic search engine.

Other coverages

Visits

With our pet insurance policy, the following types of visits are free:

• Scheduled consultation.
• Specialised consultation.
• Preventive consultation for oral health (once a year).
• Life-threatening emergency consultation (with prior telephone authorisation).
• Check-up.

Vaccinations

Similarly, the rabies vaccine is completely free for both dogs and cats and is included in the SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance free vet care. Official fees not included.

Surgeries

Also, some surgery-related services are also free for policyholders. More specifically, the following consultations are free of charge:

• Abdominal surgery. Specialised consultation for soft tissue surgery.
• Ophthalmic surgery. Specialised ophthalmology consultation.

Imaging tests

The technology used by vets to see inside an animal’s body is vital for understanding their state of health and reaching a diagnosis. With our insurance for dogs and cats, the diagnostic imaging test consultation is completely free.

Additional procedures

What’s more, the following additional procedures are included among the SegurCaixa Pets free services (performed at the veterinary clinic where the surgery takes place):

• Post-surgical basic treatment.
• Removal of stitches.

Reproductive system and traumatology

Lastly, specialised consultations in reproductive medicine and traumatology are also included in the free vet services covered by the SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance policy.

Extra insurance benefits for pets from SegurCaixa Adeslas

On top of the significant saving from exemptions and free services, the Adeslas insurance policy with vet care cover for dogs and cats includes extra benefits. The Fully Comprehensive option covers some appealing benefits:

Third-party liability

Up to €200,000 capital. Mandatory under the new Animal Welfare Law, third-party liability insurance ensures you are covered if your pet causes damage to third parties. This is particularly relevant if you have potentially dangerous dogs.

Death due to accident

Up to €1,000 capital.

Theft

Up to €800 capital.

Death due to illness

Up to €1,000.

Network of clinics and veterinary hospitals

Included in the SegurCaixa Adeslas vet care guarantee for cats and dogs, you can access approved veterinary centres and a large veterinary team as well as 24-hour emergency services when you call 91 000 87 07 in advance.

See veterinary team

Anyone who wants to have a potentially dangerous dog (PPD) in Spain needs to comply with a series of requirements. This includes being in possession of a PPD licence and having pet insurance. So, in this guide we will explain how to get a licence for a potentially dangerous dog and what PPD dog insurance needs to cover.

Legal requirements to own a potentially dangerous dog

Before applying for a PPD licence, it is important that the individual concerned knows whether they meet the conditions required for this administrative licence. The following requirements are currently in place to own a PPD dog:

• Be of legal age.
• Not have been sentenced for homicide, damage, torture, crimes against freedom or against moral integrity, sexual offences and crimes against public health, association with an armed gang or drug trafficking crimes.
• Not be deprived, by court resolution, of the right to own potentially dangerous animals.
• Not have been penalised for a serious or very serious offence with any of the additional sanctions set out in the applicable regulations.
• Have the physical capacity and psychological aptitude to own potentially dangerous animals.
• Prove that civil liability insurance has been taken out so as to be covered for any damages that the potentially dangerous dog may inflict on third parties.

Anyone considering owning a potentially dangerous dog must know what the requirements are because if they do not meet one of them, they will not be authorised to own an animal of this kind nor to apply for a PPD licence.

Documents needed to obtain a licence for a potentially dangerous dog

Once you have decided who needs to apply, it is useful to know which documents are needed to obtain this administrative licence:

Documentation from the applicant

To process the PPD licence application, the relevant individual needs to present their national ID card, tax identification number, foreigner’s ID card, passport or residence permit.

Medical certificate for potentially dangerous dogs

Specifically, this is a certificate of physical capacity and psychological aptitude for owning potentially dangerous animals. Just like the psycho-technical certificate for a driver’s licence or weapons’ licence, it can obtained at specialised medical centres, where the applicant is subject to a medical examination and a psychological assessment.

• Medical examination. The aim of this is to assess the owner’s physical health and to check that they are physically able to take one the responsibility of handling a potentially dangerous dog (PPD). This is essential as these kinds of animals are often strong and physically powerful.
• Psychological assessment. And this test consists of determining the owner’s mental and emotional aptitude.

Criminal record certificate

Another document required to obtain a PPD licence is a criminal record certificate which proves the absence or existence of an individual’s criminal record in the Central Registry of Criminal Records.

This document can be applied for online, in person or by post. All the details about the procedure, form 790 and the payment of fees are available on the criminal record certificate page on the Ministry of Justice website.

Civil liability insurance policy

And to obtain the licence for a potentially dangerous dog, you also need to present information about the insurance policy. More specifically:

• The civil liability insurance policy.
• The most recent paid invoice issued by the bank or stamped by the banking entity.

It is important to clarify here that you do not need to take out insurance for a specific PPD dog.

What both the Animal Welfare Law and Royal Decree 287/2002, which Act 50/1999 develops on the legal framework of owning potentially dangerous animals, is that the dog owners must take out a policy that covers civil liability as a minimum. Essentially, the insurance needs to cover the personal and material damage that the animal may inflict on third parties.

• SegurCaixa Adeslas makes it easy to insure potentially dangerous dogs with our pet insurance.
• Also, did you know that the civil liability guarantee from the SegurCaixa Adeslas home insurance covers damages inflicted on third parties by your pet? Provided you have up-to-date documentation and pass the necessary health checks, we cover any breed of dog for any damage they may inflict on a third party.

What must the pet insurance policy cover to get a PPD licence?

In order to get a PPD licence, you will need to take out civil liability insurance that covers any personal and material damage that your pet may inflict on third parties. In this regard:

• The aforementioned Royal Decree 28/2002 states that the minimum scope of the civil liability insurance must not be below 120,000 euros.
• As regards the SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance, we offer two civil liability options for 200,000 euros.

Where and how to apply for the PPD licence

Having reached this point, you may be wondering where and how to apply for the PPP licence. If so, take note:

License management

• You can apply online on the website of the town hall where you live. You can also apply in person at the offices of the town council or other public bodies authorised for that purpose.
• The application involves filling in a form and presenting the documentation mentioned above.
• If you prefer, some consultancies can do the application on behalf of the individual concerned.

Valid for five years

Once obtained, the licence for potentially dangerous dogs is valid for five years and can be renewed for the same period once you present the required documentation.

Civil liability cover

We hope you now understand what the PPD licence is and how you can apply for one. But, remember: to get the licence, you need to insure the pet. So, find out all you need to know about our pet insurance with civil liability cover.

Implementation of the new Animal Welfare Law

Many people who have pets have wondered, is it mandatory to spay/neuter cats and dogs?

Spaying/neutering cats is mandatory

According to article 26 of the law, cats must be spayed/neutered before they reach six months of age. Only animals that are registered for breeding with a breeder listed in the Pet Breeders’ Register are exempt.

Bear in mind that with SegurCaixa Adeslas pet insurance, as well as enjoying the peace of mind that your cat or dog is covered for health problems, you have access to a veterinary team which will make it very easy to ensure your pet’s wellbeing.

These are the potential scenarios when it comes to cats:

1. If you already have a cat: chapter 2 of the law requires that all cats are spayed/neutered to prevent uncontrolled reproduction and the consequences of this, as well as microchip identification. 
2. Adoption: if you adopt a cat, the law requires you to spay/neuter it before adopting it or within a set timeframe after the adoption if it has not yet reached the minimum age at that particular time. 
3. Purchase: cats that have been bought from shops or breeders must also be spayed/neutered. 

The reasoning behind the regulation is to reduce the number of stray cats and ensure their wellbeing in a setting that is as controlled as possible. 

It is also important to remember that some Autonomous Communities require sterilisation for dogs and cats that can go outside homes and have contact with other animals of the same species.

Neutering/spaying dogs is only mandatory in certain cases

For dogs, neutering/spaying is not always mandatory, but it is in these situations:

1. Adoption: just like with cats, it is mandatory to neuter/spay an adopted dog, regardless of how old it is. The procedure must be carried out before the adoption is finalised. So, public animal protection shelters are required to neuter/spay all animals before handing them over to whoever is going to adopt them, unless the dog is not yet old enough to undergo the procedure. In this case, a sterilisation agreement is signed with the new owner.
2. Medical reasons: when the dog’s health so requires, such as in the case of hormone issues or aggressive behaviour. In these cases, it is the vet’s decision.

In the context of the new Animal Welfare Law, the sterilisation commitment is a formal agreement that pet owners sign when adopting an animal that is not yet old enough to be sterilised. This commitment ensures the owner undertakes to neuter/spay the animal once they are old enough to undergo the surgery. 

Let’s not forget that the purpose of neutering/spaying is to prevent abandonment and ensure that dogs live in a safe environment. In short, it is not mandatory to neuter/spay dogs, but the law does lay down strict measures to prevent uncontrolled reproduction.

What happens if I do not neuter/spay my pet?

The law sets out fines for those who do not comply with the requirement to neuter/spay cats and dogs in the situations we outlined above. Not neutering/spaying your pet is considered a minor offence. The same would be true if you do not microchip your pet, which is essential for finding the owner in the event of loss and an essential tool in fighting against abandonment.

Sterilising your cat or dog is a very good idea for several reasons. Neutering/spaying is a simple, routine surgical procedure from which pets recover quickly, in a matter of a few days. But it also entails multiple health benefits. With dogs, it avoids problems such as pseudopregnancy, or phantom pregnancy, which can lead to behaviour disorders. With cats, both male and female, neutering/spaying helps prevent health and behaviour problems as well as controlling overpopulation and preventing unwanted litters being born that end up as strays.

There are still many myths surrounding neutering/spaying pets: breeding at least once is good for a dog or cat’s health, sterilisation will have a negative impact on their health and cause them to gain weight, it will change their personality, etc. But none of these claims are backed by scientific evidence. While it is true that the hormonal change in cats predisposes them to gain weight more easily, neutering/spaying them does not necessarily mean that they will become obese. It all depends on how well their diet and physical activity is monitored.

As you can see, neutering/spaying your pet is the best decision for their wellbeing and for your peace of mind. This way, you will be complying with the stipulations set out in the Animal Welfare Law, which has been applicable since the 29th of November 2023 and avoid fines ranging from 500 to 10,000 euros. The clinics included in the SegurCaixa Adeslas veterinary team will perform this procedure safely and deal with any questions you have about your pet’s health.