Igualada expands dog DNA campaign after registering 806 previously uncensored dogs

The City Council will offer new free registration slots starting in March before the genetic registry becomes mandatory and paid.

Generic image of a dog with its owner in a municipal recreation area.
IA

Generic image of a dog with its owner in a municipal recreation area.

The Igualada City Council has extended its free dog DNA registration campaign after 806 dogs were added to the municipal census, with new free slots available starting in March.

The Councilor for Neighborhoods and Civic Engagement, Patrícia Illa, announced the extension of the initiative, highlighting the success of the first phase which allowed hundreds of animals in Igualada to be regularized.
These new free places will be offered as a final opportunity before the new regulation, planned for this year, makes genetic registration mandatory and subject to payment for all owners.

Genetic registration allows for the identification of pets in case of loss or theft and promotes owner responsibility.

The genetic census is a key tool for pet identification and facilitates urban planning, such as the creation of recreation and socialization areas. In this regard, Igualada has already modernized its old dog parks, incorporating improvements such as shade, fountains, dispensers, and agility zones.
Councilor Illa reminds residents that although DNA registration is still voluntary, registering animals in the municipal census is mandatory and can be done year-round electronically or in person by appointment. The Mancomunitat de la Conca d’Òdena and the City Council will soon announce details for registration in the new phase.