Costa Rica takes an increasingly progressive stance on animal welfare, backed by a landmark anti-cruelty statute passed in 2017 and administered through the national veterinary agency SENASA. Dogs in particular are deeply loved, though perspectives on animal care vary between city and countryside. Stray animals are a common sight across the country, the trade in wild species is firmly prohibited, and relocating with a pet is far less bureaucratic here than in many other nations.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Key animal welfare law | Law 9458 Against Animal Abuse (signed 2017), reforming the earlier 1994 Animal Welfare Law |
| Enforcement authority | SENASA (Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal) — official website: senasa.go.cr |
| Pet import: quarantine required? | No quarantine required (as of 2025); microchipping not mandatory for entry but recommended |
| Pet import: key documents | Health certificate from a licensed vet in country of origin; valid vaccinations |
| Penalties for animal cruelty | Up to 2 years’ imprisonment for causing the death of an animal; up to 1 year for causing harm (as of 2017 law) |
| Wild animals as pets | Banned — capture from the wild for the pet trade prohibited since 2012; import also prohibited |
What are the general attitudes toward pets and animals in Costa Rica?
Costa Ricans — affectionately called Ticos — maintain a powerful bond with the natural world and the creatures in it. Animals are widely respected and valued for their place in the ecosystem, and companion animals in particular enjoy a warm place in Costa Rican households. Dogs more than any other species are commonly treated as full members of the family, showered with affection and given attentive care.
However, this picture is not entirely consistent across all parts of the country. In San José and the larger urban centres, the idea of pets as cherished companions is firmly established and continues to grow. In more rural, agricultural settings, dogs have historically served practical roles — guarding property and livestock — rather than acting purely as beloved household companions. Several factors feed into the ongoing stray dog challenge, including a lingering view of dogs as functional animals, resistance to spaying and neutering, and a preference for purebred animals over mixed breeds. These older attitudes are gradually giving way, especially among younger Ticos.
Compared with Northern European countries — where formal registration, microchipping, and pet insurance are long-standing norms — Costa Rica’s ownership framework is still maturing, though meaningful legal progress has been made. The country’s well-known commitment to biodiversity and environmental stewardship creates a broader cultural concern for animal wellbeing that extends beyond pets, even if enforcement resources have not always kept pace with public sentiment.
What laws and regulations govern pet ownership in Costa Rica?
SENASA (Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal) serves as the principal government body for animal health and welfare in Costa Rica, with a remit covering animal production, food safety, and the protection of both animal and human health. A specific law also sets out the responsibilities of pet owners. Under Costa Rica’s Animal Welfare Law, those who keep pets are required to provide appropriate nutrition, shelter, and veterinary attention. The law further prohibits mistreatment, cruelty, neglect, and abandonment.
When travelling within the country, pets must carry a microchip and a valid health certificate. Although nationwide compulsory microchipping at the point of sale or adoption is not yet universally applied in practice, SENASA actively promotes it as part of responsible ownership. The official SENASA website at senasa.go.cr is the best source for current licensing and registration requirements, which may differ from one municipality to the next.
Local authorities play a considerable role in applying animal-related ordinances on a day-to-day basis, including rules on leash use and the secure containment of animals. Dogs must generally be kept on a lead in public areas. Following an incident in which a child was bitten by a dog inside a San José shopping centre, Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health introduced a new resolution consolidating and strengthening the standards for admitting pets to public and private premises. This signals that regulations around animals in public spaces are actively evolving as of 2025.
The law also specifies that animals deemed dangerous may not be owned by individuals convicted of offences including murder, domestic violence, assault, trafficking, sexual crimes, conspiracy, and theft. For those renting their home, it is important to read the tenancy agreement carefully, as landlords frequently impose their own conditions on keeping animals. There is no single national statute governing this issue in rental contexts, so tenants should negotiate directly and check applicable municipal rules before committing to a lease.
Trading in wild animals as pets — whether captured from the wild or captive-bred — is banned. The collection of Costa Rican wildlife from natural habitats for the pet trade was outlawed in 2012, and importing wild animals for this purpose is equally prohibited. This is a critical consideration for anyone who previously kept exotic or wild-origin species.
Are there animal welfare laws in Costa Rica, and how are they enforced?
In June 2017, then President Luis Guillermo SolÃs signed Law 9458 Against Animal Abuse into effect. This legislation amended two earlier laws — Law 7451 on Animal Welfare and Law 4573 of the Penal Code. Under its provisions, anyone who causes the death of a domestic or domesticated animal faces up to two years in prison, while causing injury to an animal or organising or encouraging animal fights — including cockfights and dog fights — carries a sentence of up to one year.
SENASA, the National Service for Agrifood Health and Quality, holds primary responsibility for animal welfare and food safety in Costa Rica. Since the enactment of Law 9458, both SENASA and the Judicial Investigation Organisation (OIJ) share responsibility for implementing it. This arrangement differs from models in countries such as the UK, where a non-governmental body like the RSPCA can pursue independent prosecutions — in Costa Rica, enforcement rests with these two state institutions.
Prior to 2017, Costa Rica already had an Animal Welfare Law on the books from 1994. One of the most significant advances brought by the 2017 legislation was the introduction of tangible penalties and fines for those who fail to meet basic standards of animal care, including the satisfaction of hunger and thirst, freedom from physical discomfort and pain, and access to disease prevention and treatment. Enforcement is progressing, though its consistency still varies across regions.
The number of animals seized by SENASA rose markedly, from around 4,000 in 2016 to 13,218 in 2023, indicating that enforcement activity is gaining momentum. A SENASA spokesperson observed that “there is progress in terms of the consequences for harming an animal today,” pointing to greater accountability and a rise in public and institutional empathy. To report suspected animal abuse, contact SENASA via senasa.go.cr or by calling the judiciary hotline at 800-8000-645.
Once a complaint is submitted, it enters a ten-day review period, after which SENASA will respond, visit the location in question to verify the reported information, and decide whether interim protective measures or the removal of the animal are warranted. Readers should verify current procedures directly with SENASA, as processes may evolve over time.
What animal welfare charities and rescue organisations operate in Costa Rica?
Among the most prominent animal welfare organisations is the Asociación Protectora de Animales de Costa Rica (APAC), a non-profit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need — including dogs, cats, horses, and farm animals. APAC is an excellent starting point for newly arrived expats who wish to offer a home to a rescued animal.
The Asociación Humanitaria Para la Protección Animal (AHPPA) is another key organisation. In 2016 alone, AHPPA received 407 animals seized or rescued by SENASA and has maintained a close working relationship with government since that time. SENASA came to regard AHPPA as a dependable partner capable of caring for confiscated animals and finding them suitable permanent homes.
Territorio de Zaguates (Land of the Strays) is a dog sanctuary built on the principle that euthanasia is not an acceptable answer to the problem of abandoned dogs. It provides temporary refuge for thousands of dogs awaiting adoption and, over fifteen years of operation, has rescued, neutered, and rehomed more than 10,000 strays, currently caring for upwards of 1,800 animals. The sanctuary sits in the mountains of Carrizal, Alajuela, and can be found online at territoriodezaguates.com. Public visits require prior arrangement — consult their website before planning a trip.
The Sloth Institute Costa Rica concentrates its efforts on one of the country’s most iconic creatures, working to rescue, rehabilitate, and return injured or orphaned sloths to their natural habitat. Expats passionate about wildlife may find volunteering with this organisation a particularly fulfilling experience.
SENASA and the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) have also collaborated with Humane Society International (HSI)/Latin America on programmes spanning pet welfare, farm animal standards, and wildlife protection. This partnership focuses on raising public awareness and delivering training to government bodies and law enforcement personnel on appropriate animal handling.
What should expats know about bringing a pet into Costa Rica?
Relocating to Costa Rica with a dog or cat is notably more straightforward than moving to many other countries. The process is considerably less complex than what is required in much of South America or Europe. Neither microchipping nor quarantine is mandated on entry, which eases the experience considerably for both owner and animal. That said, there are specific requirements that must be fulfilled before departure.
The steps below outline the standard procedure for importing dogs and cats. Always confirm the latest requirements with SENASA before your travel date, as regulations are subject to change.
- Verify your pet meets the minimum age requirement. Pets must be at least three months old before they can enter Costa Rica.
- Obtain a health certificate. A certificate of good health must be issued by a licensed veterinarian in your country of origin, confirming that your pet is healthy and free of contagious illness.
- Have the certificate officially endorsed where required. The certificate must be endorsed by the competent national veterinary authority in your home country — for example, the USDA APHIS Veterinary Services if you are travelling from the United States. Check with the appropriate authority in your own country.
- Keep all vaccinations current. Rabies vaccination is particularly important and must be up to date. Carry complete vaccination documentation with you.
- Bring copies of all supporting documents. Copies of vaccination records and the health certificate should be readily accessible, as they may be requested by officials on arrival.
- Confirm your airline’s specific pet policy. Airlines impose their own requirements for travelling with animals, which may include carrier dimensions, health declarations, or additional checks.
- Contact SENASA’s animal quarantine directorate. The Dirección de Cuarentena Animal within SENASA oversees the entry and exit of animals and ensures that national regulations are met. Reach them through senasa.go.cr.
Guanacaste Airport alone recorded the arrival of 1,808 pets during 2024 — a 27% increase on the preceding year — comprising 1,625 dogs and 183 cats, a clear reflection of the growing trend of people relocating with their animals. Given that requirements can shift, always verify the current rules with SENASA prior to travel.
Where can expats buy pet food, supplies, and veterinary care in Costa Rica?
Pet supply shops are well represented in Costa Rica, particularly in major cities and areas with significant tourist populations. Mascotas is a well-known retail chain, and numerous independent local stores stock a broad selection of food, accessories, and toys. International chains such as PetSmart and Petco do not operate standalone outlets in Costa Rica, so locally owned shops and veterinary-affiliated stores are the primary in-person options for most purchases.
Online shopping is also a practical alternative, with domestic retailers such as Tiendanimal and Zooexpertos offering extensive ranges of pet products including food, grooming supplies, and toys. Delivery services tend to be more reliable in the Central Valley and main urban centres than in remote coastal or highland areas, so it is worth confirming delivery coverage to your specific location before ordering.
Veterinary provision is generally of a solid standard in San José and other larger cities, encompassing both general practices and specialist facilities. Petcafé, for example, is a veterinary clinic specialising in animal health and international pet relocation, offering expert guidance on navigating complex import requirements. Their website is petcafe.co.cr. In rural parts of the country, the range of available veterinary services can be considerably narrower, and accessing specialist care may involve a journey to the nearest city. Expats settling in more isolated areas are strongly advised to identify the closest fully equipped clinic before they face an emergency.
Consultation fees at veterinary practices are typically lower than those in Western Europe or North America, though specialist treatments and imported medications are broadly in line with international pricing. Imported pet food brands are available but often carry a price premium due to import costs; locally produced alternatives are widely available and generally offer better value. Pet insurance remains uncommon in Costa Rica — check whether your existing provider offers international coverage, or research local options before your arrival.
Are there cultural taboos, sensitivities, or religious considerations around specific animals in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is a predominantly Catholic nation, and there are no significant religious restrictions or cultural prohibitions relating to common domestic animals such as dogs or cats. In contrast to some Muslim-majority societies where dogs may be seen as ritually impure and keeping them indoors is considered inappropriate, dogs are fully embraced in Costa Rica and you will encounter no difficulties walking one in public.
One area where cultural sensitivity is worth noting involves snakes. Many Costa Ricans regard snakes as inherently dangerous, and it is not uncommon for people to kill a snake on sight rather than attempt to move it safely. If you keep a snake as a pet or come across one in your garden, be prepared for strong reactions from neighbours. A measured, informative conversation with those around you is advisable if you keep reptiles in your home.
Costa Rica is home to more than 500,000 species and has set aside over 25% of its territory as national parkland — a source of profound national pride. Native species such as monkeys, sloths, toucans, and others hold deep cultural significance and are regarded as national symbols. Keeping any native wild animal as a pet — including one that appears to have been abandoned — is against the law. The collection of Costa Rican wildlife from the wild for the pet trade was prohibited in 2012, and this rule is taken seriously by authorities. If you come across an injured wild animal, the correct course of action is to contact a licensed wildlife rescue centre rather than attempting to care for it yourself.
Cockfighting, despite its long-standing presence in certain parts of rural Costa Rica, is now illegal under the 2017 animal welfare legislation, which provides for prison sentences of up to one year for those who organise or promote animal combat. Expats should be aware that while such events may still take place informally in some rural communities, attending or taking part carries genuine legal exposure and is strongly condemned by animal welfare groups throughout the country.
What is the situation regarding stray or feral animals in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica banned the euthanasia of animals in 2003, and the stray dog population is now estimated at over two million. This pairing — a legal prohibition on culling combined with insufficient spay-and-neuter infrastructure — has produced a visible and widespread stray animal presence throughout the country. Much like Brazil or Colombia, where street dogs are a familiar feature of daily urban life, encountering strays in Costa Rica is routine rather than unusual.
The scale of the stray dog problem is considerable, with thousands of animals surviving on the streets in conditions often marked by hunger, illness, and the constant hazards of traffic and human hostility. Organisations such as Territorio de Zaguates are working to address this through rescue operations, adoption promotion, and public education on responsible pet ownership. Subsidised spay and neuter programmes run by various NGOs represent one of the most effective tools available for managing stray populations over the long term.
Territorio de Zaguates alone has rescued, neutered, and rehomed over 10,000 animals in fifteen years, and its imaginative campaign — “When you adopt a mutt, you adopt a unique breed” — has successfully increased uptake of mixed-breed dogs across the country. For expats, adopting a rescue animal is a genuinely rewarding path, and groups such as APAC and Territorio de Zaguates actively facilitate international adoptions.
From a health perspective, while Costa Rica is not categorised as high risk for canine rabies, it remains sensible to exercise caution around stray animals. Do not approach animals that appear aggressive or distressed, and make certain your own pets are fully vaccinated. If you are bitten or scratched by an unknown animal, seek medical attention without delay. The Ministry of Health (ministeriodesalud.go.cr) and the PAHO/WHO Costa Rica country office provide authoritative guidance on zoonotic disease risks including rabies and leptospirosis — consult these sources for current advice both before and after your move.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to quarantine my pet when bringing it to Costa Rica?
No quarantine is required to bring a pet into Costa Rica, and microchipping is not a mandatory condition of entry, making the process considerably easier than in many other countries. You will, however, need a valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in your home country, and your pet must be at least three months old. Always verify the current entry requirements with SENASA at senasa.go.cr before you travel, as the rules can change.
Is it legal to own exotic or wild animals as pets in Costa Rica?
Owning wild animals as pets — whether caught in the wild or captive-bred — is prohibited in Costa Rica. The capture of native wildlife for the pet trade was banned in 2012, and importing wild animals for the same purpose is equally forbidden. Keeping any native wild animal, even one discovered injured or apparently abandoned, is against the law. If you find an injured wild animal, contact a licensed rescue organisation rather than attempting to care for it yourself.
What should I do if I witness animal cruelty in Costa Rica?
Cases of animal abuse can be reported to SENASA via the judiciary’s dedicated hotline at 800-8000-645. You may also lodge a complaint through SENASA’s official website at senasa.go.cr. Including photographs or video evidence where possible will help investigators assess the severity and urgency of the situation.
Are there breed restrictions on dogs in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica does not currently have a national breed-specific ban equivalent to, for example, the UK’s Dangerous Dogs Act or breed-specific legislation enforced in certain German states. However, individual municipalities may maintain their own local ordinances, and the law does prohibit people convicted of specific offences — including domestic violence and assault — from keeping animals classified as dangerous. Check with your local municipality and with SENASA for any breed-specific provisions applicable in your area.
How do I find a vet in Costa Rica?
Veterinary clinics are well established throughout the Central Valley, as well as in San José, Liberia, Jacó, and other major population centres. Specialist practices such as Petcafé also offer guidance on international pet relocation. In more rural settings, the availability of veterinary services tends to be more limited, so it is advisable to locate a suitable practice before you have an urgent need. Expat community groups and local Facebook forums are often the most reliable sources of personal recommendations for trusted vets in a particular area.
Can I adopt a rescue dog or cat in Costa Rica as an expat?
Absolutely — rescue adoption is strongly encouraged, and organisations including APAC, AHPPA, and Territorio de Zaguates are all receptive to applications from expats residing in Costa Rica. Territorio de Zaguates allows prospective adopters to browse available dogs through their website and then complete a process that includes submitting an application, meeting the animal in person, and taking part in an adoption interview. Full details can be found at territoriodezaguates.com.
Is Costa Rica safe in terms of rabies risk for pets and people?
The CDC does not classify Costa Rica as high risk for canine-origin rabies, but the risk is not entirely absent. Keeping your pet’s rabies vaccination current is strongly recommended. If either you or your pet sustains a bite from an unfamiliar animal, seek medical care promptly. For the most up-to-date public health guidance, consult the Costa Rican Ministry of Health or the PAHO/WHO Costa Rica office.
Are pets allowed in apartments and rental properties in Costa Rica?
No nationwide law in Costa Rica guarantees tenants the right to keep animals in rented accommodation. Permission to keep pets is generally determined by the terms of individual tenancy agreements and the preferences of individual landlords. Before signing any lease, secure the landlord’s position on pets in writing. Bear in mind that condominiums and gated communities often have their own internal regulations that may restrict or prohibit certain animals regardless of what the landlord may agree to, so review both the rental contract and any applicable homeowners’ association rules thoroughly.