THIS Saturday, 1st February, hundreds of people and their dogs will march through Central London to the Embassy of Spain, calling for an end to the barbaric practice of hunting with dogs in Spain.
Each year, as Spain’s hunting season ends, up to 100,000 dogs – primarily Galgos and Podencos – are abandoned or killed, often through methods designed to prolong their suffering. The season’s end on 1st February marks a grim turning point for dogs deemed unfit for hunting. Many endure a lifetime of cruelty, with their abandonment or slaughter carried out in especially inhumane ways.
Despite widespread hope for change, 2023 brought disappointment when Spain’s Parliament excluded hunting dogs from its new animal welfare law – ironically one of the most progressive in Europe. By classifying these dogs as “tools” rather than animals in need of protection, the government effectively endorsed their mistreatment.
In response, Free Spanish Hounds, a UK-based volunteer organisation, was established in summer 2023 to raise awareness and stand in solidarity with Spanish advocacy group Plataforma NAC. The group held its first protest in London on 3rd February 2023, which drew 200 participants and 150 dogs. This year’s event is expected to see even greater turnout, with simultaneous protests planned in Manchester and Glasgow.
The UK marches are part of a larger international effort, with peaceful protests taking place in 48 Spanish cities and 29 others across Europe. Together, these events amplify the voices of those fighting to end this cruel practice.
Teresa Rodriguez, who organises NAC’s international protests, highlighted the importance of global awareness:
“By raising awareness to their plight globally, we aim to encourage visitors to Spain to protest against these practices and create diplomatic pressure on the Spanish administration. This approach has already been a success, when European politicians called for action following our demonstrations at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
“While awareness is growing among Spanish citizens, many politicians continue to prioritise tradition and business interests over animal welfare. With support from the international community, including the peaceful protest in London on 1st February, we remain committed to driving meaningful change and ensuring better protection for these dogs.”
Adva Shimshy, co-founder of Free Spanish Hounds, emphasised the group’s unwavering commitment:
“We will continue to protest in the UK and be the voice for these dogs until the Spanish government takes decisive action to end hunting with dogs and ensure the protection they so desperately need. Together, we stand for a future free from cruelty and neglect.”
The London protest will begin at Victoria Embankment Gardens at 11am this Saturday 1st February 2025, before marching to the Embassy of Spain in Belgrave Square.
For more information or to join the peaceful protest, visit www.freespanishhounds.co.uk.
Main photo credit – last year’s protest: Eunice Wilson. Second photo: Jeff Moore.