One of the most serious cases of animal cruelty and neglect has been uncovered in Velez-Malaga.
It comes after an injured dog found wandering along a path led authorities to a breeding facility in Almayate, where police rescued around 300 dogs and cats being kept in appalling conditions.
A 74-year-old man, believed to be the owner of the breeding operation, and a 40-year-old employee have been arrested and are under investigation on suspicion of continuous animal cruelty resulting in death, as well as offences linked to intensive breeding practices.
A veterinarian responsible for the animals’ healthcare is also being investigated.
According to the Policia Nacional, the sheer number of animals meant the search of the property lasted three days.
Officers discovered facilities covered in animal waste and rubbish, with widespread hygiene and welfare concerns throughout the site.
Many of the rescued animals were suffering from infectious diseases, parasite infestations and untreated injuries.
Several dogs required immediate veterinary treatment and emergency surgery after being removed from the premises.
Investigators said a number of breeding females were found suffering from severe uterine infections that required urgent sterilisation procedures.
One of the most disturbing discoveries was a dead cat found inside a cage alongside living animals.
The rescued dogs and cats have since been distributed among more than a dozen animal shelters and rescue organisations across Malaga province, where they will receive treatment and rehabilitation before being put up for adoption.
Part of a wider problem
Animal welfare groups say the case highlights an ongoing problem linked to the demand for pedigree pets and illegal breeding operations that prioritise profit over welfare.
Similar cases have been uncovered across Spain in recent years.
In April 2026, more than 330 dogs were rescued from a breeding facility in Gijon amid allegations of poor hygiene and potential criminal offences.
A year earlier, authorities dismantled an illegal breeding operation in A Coruña where 250 dead animals and 171 living animals were found in extreme conditions.
In Murcia, police uncovered another illegal breeding facility containing more than 300 animals and dozens of animal carcasses stored in a freezer.
What Spanish law says
Spain’s Animal Welfare Law 7/2023 imposes strict obligations on breeders, requiring them to be properly registered and to provide adequate housing, food, hygiene standards and veterinary care.
The legislation also tightened controls on breeding and pet sales in an effort to combat exactly the type of practices allegedly uncovered in Vélez-Málaga.
Those found guilty can face substantial fines in addition to potential criminal penalties.
Citizen complaint sparked investigation
Police said the entire investigation began because a member of the public reported finding a seriously injured dog.
Animal welfare organisations have pointed to the case as another example of the crucial role played by citizens in exposing suspected abuse.
Experts continue to urge prospective pet owners to avoid breeders who refuse visits to their facilities, cannot provide veterinary records or offer puppies without proper documentation.
They also warn that breeders advertising large numbers of different breeds simultaneously should be treated with caution.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
