Andorra's Dog Shelter Hits Historic Low with 13 Dogs Amid €800K Upgrades

Andorra's Canine Protection Centre houses a record low of 13 dogs, with seven more in foster care, as officials inaugurated recent upgrades funded by over €800,000 in government investments this legislative term.

Environment, Agriculture and Livestock Minister Guillem Casal announced the figures during a visit to the Borda Vidal facility on Monday. The latest €122,000 renovation covers the service building, including a new reception and welcome area, volunteer office and rest space, staff bathrooms, animal care zones, and cleaning facilities for utensils. These improvements build on a main building opened two years ago, bringing total spending to around €800,000.

Casal, alongside FEDA director general Sílvia Calvó, inspected a new recreation area created through FEDA's €70,000 contribution on government land. The space aims to reduce time dogs spend in cubicles by offering outdoor exercise.

The minister attributed the low occupancy to awareness campaigns by GosSOS and government efforts to promote adoptions and curb abandonments. He emphasized early interventions to prevent animals from entering the centre.

GosSOS president Audrey Montiel welcomed the progress, saying public messaging is resonating, with more people opting to adopt rather than buy pets this summer. The association has launched a permanent free support program for adopters, featuring external trainers funded by donations, to ease dogs' transition from the stress of the centre to family homes and lower return rates.

Montiel described the recreation zone as essential for welfare: it ensures dogs spend less time confined, improving their basic quality of life.

Upgrades at the Feline Protection Centre this term feature expanded play areas, new electrical systems, laundry and storage facilities, and updated heating.

Casal said these initiatives support fewer strays and surrenders while encouraging responsible ownership.