On Saturday, 1st February 2025, hundreds of people and their dogs will march through Central London to the Embassy of Spain, demanding an end to hunting with dogs in Spain.
Every year, as the Spanish hunting season ends, up to 100,000 dogs – primarily Galgos and Podencos – are abandoned or killed, often in ways designed to prolong their suffering.
The end of the hunting season on 1st February marks the time when dogs deemed unfit for hunting are discarded. Many of these dogs are treated with extreme cruelty during their lifetime and the ways of killing unwanted dogs are especially cruel, designed often to extend their suffering.
In 2023, despite hopes for progress, the Spanish Parliament excluded hunting dogs from Spain’s 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 sanctioned their mistreatment.
In response, Free Spanish Hounds, a UK-based volunteer organisation, was formed in summer of 2023 to raise awareness and stand in solidarity with the Spanish advocacy group Plataforma NAC.
As organisers of the London march, Free Spanish Hounds held their first protest on 3rd February 2023, which was attended by 200 people and 150 dogs. This year the protest is expected to draw greater support, with identical events planned in Manchester and Glasgow, further demonstrating the widespread commitment to this cause.
The UK marches are part of a coordinated effort with similar peaceful protests, that take place in 48 cities in Spain and 29 others across Europe, amplifying the voices of those fighting to end this barbaric practice.
Teresa Rodriguez, who organises NAC’s international protests said:
“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, one of the founders of Free Spanish Hounds said:
“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 peaceful protest will start at Victoria Embankment Gardens at 11am on 1st February 2025 and then march to the Embassy of Spain in Belgrave Square.
To learn more and join the peaceful protest, visit www.freespanishhounds.co.uk
Imagery credit – last year’s protest: Jeff Moore
