The Insular Council of Menorca has approved an update to the fiscal ordinance regulating the fees for the island’s animal shelters in Maó and Ciutadella, marking the first major revision in 19 years. The change aims to modernise outdated regulations from 2006, aligning them with current animal care practices and the island’s joint shelter management system, in place since 2022, involving the Council, the eight municipalities, and local animal welfare organisations.

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Menorca Updates Animal Shelter Fees After 19 Years to Prioritise Welfare and Responsible Adoption

A New Model Focused on Animal Welfare

At the heart of the reform is a commitment to animal welfare and responsible adoption. The new ordinance raises adoption fees for high-demand animals, such as puppies under seven months (now €150), to discourage impulsive adoptions that often lead to abandonment.

Conversely, it introduces symbolic adoption fees for the most vulnerable:

• €15 for senior animals (over 7 years) or those with illnesses,
• €1 for animals transferred to animal welfare organisations, making it easier for chronically ill or elderly dogs and cats to find care in foster homes or colonies.

Updated and Transparent Fee Structure

The ordinance also formalises current service costs, which were absent in 2006, and reflects updated fiscal procedures introduced in 2023. The new standardised fees are:

• Sterilization: €100 (dogs), €75 (cats)
• Veterinary services:
  • Microchip + sedation: €59
  • Rabies vaccination: €18
  • EU pet passport: €15
• Daily shelter care: €5/day (dogs), €3/day (cats)

By adjusting fees, the Council aims to relieve overcrowding in the shelters, encouraging adoptions of vulnerable animals and creating space for healthy ones. Meanwhile, higher fees for young animals promote more thoughtful adoption decisions, reducing the risk of abandonment.

Public Participation and Institutional Commitment

The reform will be subject to a 30-day public consultation period, during which citizens may submit comments or objections.

According to Environment Councillor Simón Gornés, this reform is “a tool to ensure animal welfare: we’re preventing impulsive adoptions of young animals and giving real chances to those most in need. It reflects the joint commitment of the Consell, the municipalities, and animal protection groups to build a more compassionate Menorca for all animals.”