Ibiza’s local government has drawn attention with a harsh penalty after finding two large dogs trapped in a closed vehicle. The case brings into focus laws protecting animal welfare and the risks of leaving pets inside cars. Here’s what happened—and what dog owners must know.

The Incident in Ibiza

During a municipal plenary session, the Ayuntamiento de Ibiza confirmed a fine of €2,400.40 against a woman, identified only as T.M.M., for leaving two large dogs confined inside a vehicle. The fine arises from multiple breaches of the local Animal Protection Ordinance.
The dogs were held inside a car at the former Es Gorg makeshift housing camp. The animals lacked ventilation, food, water, and no sanitary conditions were maintained. Also, they were not registered, unvaccinated, and lacked civil liability insurance.

Legal Grounds & Violations

The authority deemed the situation a serious violation because the vehicle constituted an “inadequate installation from hygienic-sanitary and welfare perspectives.” The violations included:

• no proper air circulation or ventilation
• absence of water and food
• unsanitary environment, where the dogs had to relieve themselves inside
• absence of registration in Balearic Islands system
• no required vaccination
• lack of civil liability insurance

Context & Broader Implications

Local officials clarified that authorities documented the mistreatment in February, well before the camp dismantling.
Council member Guadalupe Nauda questioned whether the penalised owner received support after her eviction, and whether alternative animal housing options were offered. The municipal representative responded that the abuse was confirmed months before the eviction, so the penalty stems purely from animal welfare standards.

What This Means for Dog Owners

• Animal protection laws may carry steep fines when pets suffer from neglect.
• Authorities treat leaving dogs in a car under heat or closed windows as a serious offence.
• Owners must ensure registration, vaccination, and liability insurance where required.
• Municipalities may monitor and enforce these rules proactively.

Lessons Across Regions

Although this case occurred in Ibiza, it signals a stricter enforcement trend in many regions. In places where animal welfare laws exist, leaving a dog in a closed car—especially during hot hours—can invite a fine for leaving dogs in car. Owners should always avoid leaving pets unattended in vehicles.

Conclusion

The €2,400 fine issued by Ibiza authorities underscores that leaving animals in a vehicle under unsafe conditions constitutes more than a careless act—it can trigger legal and financial consequences. The case should prompt all pet owners to act responsibly and know local animal protection regulations.