Spain now has over 15 million registered pets, a figure that surpasses the population of young people under 30. This fact, confirmed by the first Companion Animal Statistics compiled by the National Statistics Institute (INE) along with the Directorate General for Animal Rights, offers a comprehensive view of human-animal coexistence in the country.
The data published by the INE indicates a 14% increase compared to 2021, highlighting a significant change in the Spanish family structure. Sociologists and demographers observe how companion animals are becoming a fundamental part of households, especially in a context of low birth rates, an aging population, and the growth of single-person households.
At the European level, the trend is similar, with over half of households coexisting with at least one animal. Spain stands out for its intense growth over the last decade. The Affinity Foundation points out that most 'guardians' consider their pets full members of the family, reflecting a cultural shift that is evident in everyday language and practices.
Science supports the benefits of living with animals. Studies published in journals like Frontiers in Psychology suggest a reduction in loneliness and an improvement in emotional well-being. Dogs, in particular, are associated with increased physical activity and better cardiovascular health, according to a study in BMC Public Health.
The pandemic also boosted responsible animal adoption. However, the phenomenon presents challenges such as high abandonment rates, with over 286,000 dogs and cats collected by shelters in 2023. Law 7/2023 on the Protection of Animal Rights and Welfare introduces new obligations to promote responsible ownership.
Sociologist Joan Tahull highlights the role of animals as "existential tranquilizers" in a society marked by aging and single-person households, mitigating loneliness in an environment of ephemeral social interactions.
