A new Spanish series is winning over viewers by mixing comedy with the charming world of pets. Old Dog New Tricks (original Spanish title Animal) arrived on Netflix on October 3, 2025. The show follows a grumpy rural veterinarian who must adapt to a modern pet boutique, creating a classic “fish out of water” story. Here is a simple guide to the actors and characters who bring this funny and warm story to life.
The Story Behind Old Dog New Tricks
The plot follows Antón, a traditional veterinarian from a small Galician village. After losing his clients, he faces serious money problems. With few options left, he is forced to accept a job at a trendy pet boutique called Kawanda, which is owned and run by his niece, Uxía. Antón is used to a straightforward, no-nonsense approach with animals. The modern store, with its grooming services and sometimes overly sensitive pet owners, is a world he does not understand. The series shows his struggle to fit in, leading to many comedic and touching moments.
Main Cast and Characters
Luis Zahera as Antón
At the center of the show is Luis Zahera, who plays the lead role of Antón. Zahera is a well-known and respected Spanish actor, but this role is special because it is his first leading part in a television series. He is famous for his intense and often dramatic roles in shows like Wrong Side of the Tracks and movies like The Realm and The Beasts, for which he won Goya Awards.
In Old Dog, New Tricks, he shows a different side of his talent. His character Antón is gruff and set in his ways. He believes in being brutally honest, which often creates problems with the pet owners he meets. Zahera’s performance makes Antón a character you might find frustrating at times, but also one you can’t help but like.
One reviewer noted, “Luis Zahera is splendid as a grumpy veterinarian with a good heart, balancing tenderness and Galician wit in a way only he can.”
Lucía Caraballo as Uxía
Playing the role of Uxía, Antón’s niece, is Lucía Caraballo. Her character, Uxía, is the owner of the pet store Kawanda. She is kind, patient, and has a more modern view of caring for both animals and their owners. She is the one who gives her uncle a job, even though their personalities clash. Their dynamic relationship is the heart of the series.
Caraballo has appeared in other Spanish TV shows such as Estoy vivo and Las largas sombras. To prepare for her role as a Galician woman, the Madrid-based actress worked with a coach to perfect the local accent, showing her dedication to the part.
Carmen Ruiz as Sabela
Carmen Ruiz plays Sabela, who is Antón’s partner. Sabela is a practical character. It is largely her pushing that forces Antón to take the job at Uxía’s store to help with their overwhelming debts. She represents the voice of reason in his life. Ruiz is a familiar face in Spanish television, having been in series like Yo soy Bea and Amar es para siempre.
Antonio Durán “Morris” as Vicente
Antonio Durán “Morris” takes on the role of Vicente. In the series, Vicente is a scammer and can be considered a frenemy to Antón. He creates various challenges and problems for the main character, which drive the story forward. The actor is known for his role in Pratos combinados and other shows like Néboa.
Supporting Cast Members
The world of Old Dog, New Tricks is filled with other interesting characters who add depth and humor to the story. The supporting cast includes several talented actors:
- Nuno Gallego as Miguel
- Sergio Abelaira as Toñín
- Darío Loureiro as Nuno
- Raquel Nogueira as Ángela
- Fernando Fraga as Roi
- Adrián Viador as Bernardo
Where Was the Show Filmed?
The setting of the series is very important. Old Dog, New Tricks was filmed entirely in Galicia, Spain. Scenes were shot in beautiful locations like A Ponte Maceira, Teo, Vedra, and Santiago de Compostela. The show uses the lovely landscapes and distinct feel of Galicia not just as a background, but as a key part of its story, highlighting the contrast between rural and urban life.
A Hit Show for Animal Lovers
Since its release, the series has been received well by audiences looking for a light-hearted and charming show. It doesn’t try to be a loud comedy, but rather a gentle, slice-of-life story about relationships and change. The chemistry between the cast, especially between Zahera and Caraballo, carries the show. Of course, the many pets in the series also steal plenty of scenes.
One fan shared their thoughts online, writing, “At first, I thought it was a cheap copy of Dr. Dolittle, but I ended up fascinated, on a roller coaster of emotions.” Another viewer called it “a simple but effective series – the kind you watch with a smile and without expectations.”
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