Whether you own a cat, dog or budgie, there?s no denying that your pet is most certainly a part of the family, so if you?re leaving Britain to come and start a new life in Spain, you?ll no doubt want to bring your furry friend with you.

However, there are a number of rules and regulations you?ll need to acknowledge beforehand, such as:

• It is compulsory to have your dog vaccinated against rabies, as well as diseases such as hard pad and distemper.
  
• If you?re bringing a cat to Spain, you will need to immunise him/her against typhus and feline gastro enteritis.
  
• Spanish law dictates that all domestic pets must be identified by microchip or by a clearly marked tattoo. The tattoo method will only be accepted as a means of identification until 3 July 2011.
  
• Dog fouling is not illegal in public places; however, cleaning up after your dog is appreciated in some places, such as public parks.
  
• Dogs must be kept on a lead in public areas at all times.

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